Tim Simona may escape a life ban from the sport for betting on matches after meeting with the NRL on Monday in an attempt to salvage what is left of his rugby league career.

Simona still will be deregistered from the NRL, however Fairfax Media understands the door for a return to the game might not be shut completely with the governing body considering allowing him to apply for registration after a suspension of between two to four years.

Glimmer of hope: Tim Simona still faces at least two to four years out of the game. Credit:Getty Images

Fairfax Media understands Simona made admissions about his gambling in a three-hour meeting at League Central on Monday, which was attended by his manager Isaac Moses and Rugby League Players Association boss Ian Prendergast.

It is understood the 25-year-old Simona opened up on his gambling addiction that has left him battling financially for some time, placing enormous pressure and stress that led to his decision to bet on rugby league.