A NEW COACH will lead the charge at Saddleworth Rangers as they battle against relegation from National Conference League Division One after the surprise resignation of Emmerson Jackman.
Shane Tupaea has taken over after Jackman and assistant coach Paul Ashton stepped down following the side’s 52-22 home defeat to Oulton Raiders.
Rangers secured wins over Millom and Stanley Rangers last month to keep them off the bottom of the table, but Jackman called time after becoming frustrated with the players’ commitment to the amateur game.
He said: “I’d just had enough and couldn’t do it any longer. I have done it for two years and feel like I’ve not had a lot of success. I have enjoyed it but it is hard and I’ve just become miserable with it.
“The players are not committed enough – I know it’s hard with families and work but if you want to be successful you have to try your best. I’m a winner and I want more.”
Stepping into Jackman’s shoes for the remaining 12 games is Tupaea, ex Oldham professional and former Rochdale Hornets coach, who also coaches Rangers’ under 11s with Wes Rogers.
Tupaea, whose sons Bennet plays for the under 11s and Nolan for the under 8s, said: “I’m not expecting to work miracles.
“First and foremost there has to be 100 per-cent commitment from the players or it won’t work. Most clubs in the amateur league have problems getting commitment but I want to get them to enjoy the game and want to play.
“Our goal is just to make sure the club stays in the division. I will do what I can and I will always give 100-per-cent commitment.
“Emmerson is a great coach and if you cut him in half he is black and white. I hope he will stay involved with the club and support us.”
Shane, who will appoint an assistant coach in the near future, added he wants to host more youth team curtain raisers and involve them in club life to inspire them to become the club’s future.
Meanwhile, Waterhead remain mid-table in Division One despite what coach Andy Sands describes as a “nightmare” spell.
Sands says the unavailability of players has been the bane of his life while scrum-half Mick Diveney and winger Tom McMullen are currently serving four and two-match bans following sendings off.
“It appears to be a common problem because every club I speak to seems to be struggling for players,” explained Sands.
Waterhead are seventh in the table and Sands says he would settle for his newly-promoted side to remain in that spot at the end of the season.
“We are not ready to go up again. We need to keep building then next season may be we will be ready to make a challenge,” said Sands.
Sands added that Waterhead have a difficult second half to the season in which they have to play most of the top teams.
However, between now and the end of August, five of the next six league games are at home and Sands is hoping they can post the wins which will ensure they remain in Division One for the 2014 campaign.
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