Gloucester today cited three Bedford players for alleged foul play during last week's Allied Dunbar Premiership match between the clubs.

The move follows Bedford's decision to cite Gloucester back Byron Hayward.

Bedford lodged their protest with the Rugby Football Union, claiming that Welsh international Hayward punched second-row forward Chad Eagle.

Hayward, a former Welsh amateur boxing champion, joined Gloucester from Llanelli earlier this season, having won two Wales caps on the 1998 tour to South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Premiership leaders Gloucester, who won the Goldington Road clash 18-6, have now responded by also complaining to Twickenham, although they have not publicly named the Bedford trio or detailed their alleged offences.

The RFU must now decide whether there are cases to answer, and if so, will stage relevant disciplinary hearings.

"After extensive analysis of the video, there is further evidence of similar everity caused by Bedford players," read a Gloucester statement.

"In view of this, Gloucester Rugby ootball Club has cited three Bedford players. The matter is now in the hands
of the RFU, and there will be no further comment from Gloucester until he RFU has considered the matter."

Bedford, currently bottom of Premiership One following nine uccessive defeats, are aware that Gloucester have filed a triple complaint.

"It's a bit sad that they waited for us to cite one of their players before making a complaint. It is a tit-for-tat thing,"said a Bedford spokesman.

The match took place a day later than scheduled, causing consternation in Gloucester's ranks.

Gloucester officials, players and supporters were furious when referee Nigel Yates postponed the game barely an hour before kick-off, ruling that a small area of the pitch was unplayable.

The fixture was then rearranged, but Gloucester could still pursue a compensation claim, notably for hotel costs.