Hallas was into his second season in charge at Hunslet

Graeme Hallas has resigned as head coach of Championship One Hunslet Hawks, after 18 months in charge.

His departure follows two straight defeats for the Hawks who had won three of their last six matches, leaving them sixth in the division.

"My sadness is not finishing what I started. I believe I have done a job and can leave with my head held high," Hallas told BBC Radio Leeds.

Second team coach Gary Lord has taken temporary charge.

The Hawks finished bottom of the table in Hallas' first season in charge last year, but had built a much more competitive squad for the 2009 campaign.

"I felt the time was right to go, but there were a number of factors involved.

"I don't feel I have had the full benefit from one or two of my more experienced players at the club and as such of form has dipped a little bit.

"So I've passed the baton in the hope these lads will pick their personal situations back up and allow the new man to take the club forward and kick-on.

"I took on a job warts-and-all and had a pretty horrendous time on and off the field last year with it.

"I like to think people will recognise I am now handing over this team in a pretty healthily position.

Hawks chief executive Alan Stephenson said: "Graeme has acted with great professionalism and dignity. He took over the club in the most difficult of circumstances.

"The Hawks will now look for a new coach for the rest of the season. Second-team coach Gary Lord takes over the reins with immediate effect until a decision is made."

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