Pooler coaches search on hold (From Free Press Series)

Pooler coaches search on hold

10:00am Thursday 19th November 2009

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THE search for a new head coach at crisis club Pontypool RFC was put on hold this week.

Pooler are without a chief since Gareth Lintern's departure three weeks ago. Following defeats to Carmarthen and Saturday's loss at Glamorgan Wanderers, they are also still without a Premiership win this season from 11 attempts.

James Chapron and Mike Hook have been installed as temporary coaches, and are being genuinely considered as the club's long-term replacements. But no decision is expected until at least next week now when managing director Frank Stanton returns from holiday.

Club secretary Colin Tuckwell said: "The selection process is still ongoing. We haven't got a game now until Ebbw Vale on December 5 so we can take our time.

"We have had a few names come forward and I suppose you could call that a shortlist. Frank's away until next week though so we'll not be making any decision until he's back."

Tuckwell confirmed that Chapron and Hook had expressed an interest in the vacant positions, adding: "We'll consider the possibility of them staying on permanently at the same time we consider those other options."

Following the departure of Lintern and backs coach Jarred Lougher, Stanton was quick to alleviate any fears the interim pair would not be up to the task of keeping Pontypool in the Premiership.

"People shouldn’t think we’re rudderless or that the guys in charge are unqualified", he said.

Pooler have shown some promise under the new regime, even if they are still searching for a win.

After an improved display at Glamorgan Wanderers, Hook said: “That was a huge improvement for us and I thought the boys were outstanding. Our defence was excellent when they were camped on our line.

“Two months ago, we would have crumbled and ended up conceding 30 or 40 points. This gives us plenty to build on for our game with Ebbw Vale in three weeks.”

Last week supporters held a timely meeting at the Pilcs club, where they had the opportunity to quiz club officials on the side's progress.

"It gave us the chance to explain where we're at and what we're doing", added Tuckwell.

He said the meeting had been good-natured, and that supporters had not asked too many questions.

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