The NRL has fined five clubs a total of $41,438 for salary cap breaches in the 2008 season.

St George Illawarra were the hardest hit with a $15,200 fine, followed by South Sydney ($12,500), Gold Coast ($5,458), Bulldogs ($4,655) and Wests Tigers ($3,625).

The fines handed out were significantly less than the $237,135 issued in 2007 and $464,849 from the 2006 season.

The problems stemmed from either second-tier salary breaches or misinterpretations with the guidelines.

"It's a pleasing result in many respects but also a reminder to the clubs that even relatively minor breaches must still incur penalties," NRL chief executive David Gallop said.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP