Two brothers have narrowly avoided a jail term after carrying out a “cowardly” attack in which they could have killed their victim, a court heard.

Martin Young and Damian Medway were both “in drink” when they assaulted the man, who has been left suffering mental health problems and needing medication following the attack.

Southampton Crown Court heard how the incident unfolded in Westwood Road, Portswood, Southampton, on the afternoon of March 29, when the pair were walking and a dog, belonging to the victim, approached and sniffed them.

Prosecutor Rachael Robertson told how the pair became angry, with Medway pushing the victim and swearing before Young went in to the man’s flat. The court heard how the victim went inside after Young, 31, but was punched in the face. As the pair grappled they fell through a banister.

Judge Gary Burrell QC was told how Medway, 33, then appeared and also punched the victim, who grabbed at a cricket bat to defend himself until his attackers left.

Ms Robertson described how the victim was taken to Southampton General Hospital and had a lump to the back of his head, injuries to his face and bruising to his arms.

The court was told that when Medway was arrested he told police that he had drank seven or eight pints.

Young was arrested a short time later, telling officers that he was feeling emotional after an argument with his wife and could not remember anything other than falling down the stairs.

The court heard that since the incident the victim has suffered mental health problems and has been put on anti-depression medication.

Sarah Jones, defending Medway, said: “He was extremely concerned for his brother’s safety and he shoulder-barged the door and got in, and did not stop to think before he acted.”

Kelly Harvey, for Young, said: “He has very little recollection of what happened and can’t explain why he could enter this house as he did.”

Handing them eight-month prison terms, suspended for two years, Judge Burrell said: “Both of you were drunk and just decided to take out your frustration on this man.

“You could have killed him or caused significant damage to his brain. You are very lucky not to be charged with aggravated burglary.”

The brothers were handed a 12-month supervision order, and told to pay £500 compensation and a £100 victim surcharge each. Additionally Medway was told to undergo an alcohol treatment programme.