THE Rugby Football League have revealed they are still investigating Giants coach Jon Sharp for an alleged breach of operational rules.

Their action follows Sharp's decision to publicly criticise referee Ronnie Laughton for his controversial handling of the Giants' Challenge Cup tie with St Helens last month.

News that the investigation is on-going came at the same time it was announced that former St Helen boss Ian Millward and Bradford Bulls coach Brian Noble had been fined by the RFL.

Millward, sacked by St Helens on Tuesday for gross misconduct, was punished for swearing at an official.

The 44-year-old Australian has been found guilty of breaching the League's operational rules during Saints' engage Super League clash with Bradford at Knowsley Road on Easter Monday.

Millward, who is alleged to have used abusive language towards the fourth official, was fined £500 and ordered to pay costs of £161.35p.

And Noble has also been fined £500 after being found guilty of breaching RFL operational rules.

Noble made a reference to Nazi Germany during criticism of the match officials after the Bulls' Super League game against Leeds at Odsal on March 24.

Both men have appealed, with the hearing taking place next Thursday.