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Page last updated at 12:23 GMT, Wednesday, 1 October 2008 13:23 UK

Deakin leaves as Roughyeds boss

Rugby League

Oldham Roughyeds have parted company with coach Steve Deakin following their second successive National League Two Grand Final defeat.

The Roughyeds were beaten 18-10 by Doncaster on Sunday, a year after failing to beat Featherstone.

Oldham chief executive Chris Hamilton told the club website: "He's done his best, but we feel the club needs to go in a different direction."

Deakin was brought in as John Pendlebury's replacement in March 2006.

His contract was due to expire next month and he has not been offered a new one.

Former Catalans Dragons boss Deakin said: "I don't have any animosity, it's been an honour and privilege to be able to coach them for three seasons.

"Three years perhaps is long enough, its just up to someone else now to take the mantle and hopefully it's onwards and upwards for Oldham Rugby League Club."

Hamilton added: "We wanted promotion. That was our goal and Steve bought into it. We didn't make it. Now, we need to overturn one or two things and make a fresh start.

"The parting was very amicable. There was no fall-out, no animosity, nothing like that."

Oldham say they have an open mind on his successor and will advertise the post.



see also
Hanley quits as Doncaster coach
28 Sep 08 |  Rugby League
Oldham boss ready for play-offs
30 Jul 08 |  Rugby League
Deakin shrugs off Oldham critics
30 Apr 08 |  Rugby League
Deakin appointed as Oldham coach
08 Mar 06 |  Rugby League


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