McClennan leaves Warriors
August 21, 2012 12:13:49 UK
New Zealand Warriors coach Brian McClennan has agreed to be released from his contract.
McClennan, the former Kiwis coach, has been in charge for just a year.
He had come under pressure as last year's grand finalists continued to slump, and a sixth successive defeat - at home to the Penrith Panthers on Sunday - was the final straw.
Assistant coach Tony Iro will take over for the last two matches of the season, with the club poised to start a search for the right man to fill the job for 2013.
Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said both parties had agreed on an early release in the best interests of the club.
Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney, who was sacked as head coach of the Parramatta Eels earlier in the season, will be high on the Warriors' list of contenders.
"It was exciting coming into this job with the Vodafone Warriors and everyone has worked so hard to try to get the performances and results we all expected of ourselves,'' McClennan said.
I'm thankful for the opportunity the Vodafone Warriors gave me and wish the club all the best for the future.
Brian McClennan
"No one is more disappointed than me that things haven't worked out. I gave it my best shot. I've put my heart and soul into this and everyone has been terrific with their efforts.
"I've always said I was driving the bus and I accept accountability. It stops with me.
"For whatever reason, we haven't made the progress we all hoped for.
"I'm thankful for the opportunity the Vodafone Warriors gave me and wish the club all the best for the future.''
Scurrah said: "We know how disappointed Brian is and we're equally disappointed for him and for everyone who is associated with the Vodafone Warriors.
"Brian is a person of wonderful character and integrity, he's so passionate about rugby league and he's put in an exceptional amount of time and effort into trying to turn the team's fortunes around.
"He brought a lot of energy to the club and made a fantastic contribution off the field with his interaction with sponsors, members and in the community.
"We wish Brian and his family all the best for the future and thank him for his efforts.''
Meanwhile, the Canterbury Bulldogs are 2.05 favourites to win the NRL Grand Final.
Queensland are 3.00 to win the 2013 State of Origin series, with NSW available at 1.40.
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