Bradford Bulls’ worst fears were realised today when they were docked six points as punishment for entering administration last month.

OK Bulls Ltd was placed into administration on January 31 following a long-running control for ownership of the club between Omar Khan and the current board of directors.

A statement from the RFL said today: “The RFL Board of Directors has today ruled that Bradford Bulls will be deducted six points - the equivalent of three competition wins - as a penalty for entering into administration in January 2014.

“The Board’s decision follows a full assessment of the circumstances surrounding the club’s administration, which followed a similar insolvency event by Bradford Bulls in June 2012.

“The points will be deducted with immediate effect.

“The points sanction was applied under RFL Operational Rule 4, details of which can be found by visiting www.therfl.co.uk/the-rfl/rules/interactive_operational_rules?section=INTRO1 .”

The punishment means Francis Cummins’ side will go into Sunday’s home clash with London Broncos on minus four points.