In addition, an independent Rugby Football League panel found that the club was guilty of conduct prejudicial to the interests of the game.

Bulls pleaded guilty on both counts and were fined �25,000 plus costs, �15,000 of which was suspended for two years.

They remain fourth in the table despite the deduction, but their gap to fifth placed Salford is cut to four points.

Report: Bradford docked points for salary cap breach

After initially saying they would consider an appeal, Bradford opted to accept their punishment.

Super League rivals Wigan lost points last week after being found guilty of overspending on players' wages last year.

And Wakefield, Castleford, Hull and St Helens were also found guilty of minor infringements.

Clubs are not allowed to spend more than 50% of their income on salaries.

But the RFL panel found that Bradford had a salary cap of 52-55% at the end of 2005.

Punishments can range from a fine to a deduction of six points depending on the size of the breach.