Newport RFC Head Coach Ian Bletcher has been forced out of the club after just two seasons in the hotseat.
The former Coventry and Stourbridge man was sacked at the Forton Road club – despite Newport securing their place in National League Three Midlands with a 32-14 win over Hereford last weekend.
Bletcher said that he was disappointed with the lack of honesty surrounding his departure.
He said: “Myself and coach Bob Adams had a real under-current working against us. I’m disappointed there wasn’t a more honest approach.
“If they had asked me to leave then I would have stepped aside no problem. As it as, I was effectively sacked. Self glory of some individuals has come to the front.”
Bletcher, a RFU Coach Development Officer by day, joined the club in September 2008.
Former club captain Steve Dolphin takes over as senior coach with Bob Adams and Craig Ingram assisting.
Despite the blow, Bletcher insisted that there were no hard feelings.
He added: “I think the results prove that I had the backing of the players. They were great for me. But I hope the club goes on from this. I can hold my head up high knowing that I left the club as good as I found it.”
And in a further blow to Shropshire’s top rugby club, Ray Price has decided to call time on his four year stint as director of rugby.
The Newport stalwart, who has been involved with the club for over 50 years, said it was the right time to take a back seat.
He said: “It’s time for someone else to come in and do things their way. I wanted to step down last year but there was no-one willing to step up the plate. I’m glad to be going. The club has had enough of me and I’ve had enough of doing it.
“It’s very enjoyable most the time but this has been the toughest year because we’ve struggled. I’ll still go down every week and support Newport, as I always have.”
Price will be replaced by former player Matt Batters.
Chairman Andrew Watson Jones said: “Ian Bletcher and Ray Price have done a fantastic job for Newport Rugby Club. We wish them both well.”
By Sean Wozencroft
