DUFFMAN
Bencher
Warriors sack coach Stephen Kearney after loss to South Sydney
Phil Rothfield, The Daily Telegraph
June 20, 2020 4:20pm
Subscriber only
The New Zealand Warriors have sacked coach Stephen Kearney with two years remaining on his contract.
He is expected to be replaced by assistant coach Todd Payten for the remainder of the season.
The Warriors management made the decision Saturday morning after Friday night’s heavy loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Kearney has coached his last game in the NRL. AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts.
The players and staff were informed on the decision Saturday afternoon in Terrigal where the team is in camp.
In a year in which coaches across the game have been under enormous pressure, Kearney becomes the first to lose his job despite the difficulties the team has faced this year livin g away from home.
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga said on Fox Sports he was surprised by the decision.
“I feel it’s a bit premature considering the challenges the Warriors have had to confront,” Meninga said, “It’s a bit harsh.”
Kearney has coached the Warriors since 2017.
He took the club to the finals in 2018, marking New Zealand’s first top eight finish since 2011.
The former Kiwi Test forward had previously coached Parramatta from 2011 to 2013.
“Stephen was informed this morning that we needed to make an immediate change,” said Warriors CEO Cameron George.
Kearney’s side lost to the Rabbitohs on Friday. AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts.
“It’s a tough day for all of us particularly after last night’s performance.
“Stephen is extremely professional and has put in a huge amount of effort in the role but, along with the owners, we feel we need to make a change now in the best interests of the club.
“We’re so grateful to Stephen for the dedication he has shown to us in what have been difficult circumstances. His commitment, work ethic and concern for the wellbeing of the club, players and their families through this challenging year is testament to his character and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Phil Rothfield, The Daily Telegraph
June 20, 2020 4:20pm
Subscriber only
The New Zealand Warriors have sacked coach Stephen Kearney with two years remaining on his contract.
He is expected to be replaced by assistant coach Todd Payten for the remainder of the season.
The Warriors management made the decision Saturday morning after Friday night’s heavy loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Kearney has coached his last game in the NRL. AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts.
The players and staff were informed on the decision Saturday afternoon in Terrigal where the team is in camp.
In a year in which coaches across the game have been under enormous pressure, Kearney becomes the first to lose his job despite the difficulties the team has faced this year livin g away from home.
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga said on Fox Sports he was surprised by the decision.
“I feel it’s a bit premature considering the challenges the Warriors have had to confront,” Meninga said, “It’s a bit harsh.”
Kearney has coached the Warriors since 2017.
He took the club to the finals in 2018, marking New Zealand’s first top eight finish since 2011.
The former Kiwi Test forward had previously coached Parramatta from 2011 to 2013.
“Stephen was informed this morning that we needed to make an immediate change,” said Warriors CEO Cameron George.
“It’s a tough day for all of us particularly after last night’s performance.
“Stephen is extremely professional and has put in a huge amount of effort in the role but, along with the owners, we feel we need to make a change now in the best interests of the club.
“We’re so grateful to Stephen for the dedication he has shown to us in what have been difficult circumstances. His commitment, work ethic and concern for the wellbeing of the club, players and their families through this challenging year is testament to his character and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
