Coach quits as Ged’s men slam Crusaders

Last updated 10:55, Saturday, 12 April 2008

PETER Smith has quit as an assistant coach at Whitehaven citing differences with new boss Ged Stokes.

It is understood Smith felt frozen out, and he was at the Recreation Ground as a spectator last night to see Haven produce a stunning 44-16 win over Welsh full-timers Celtic Crusaders, in Stokes’ first home game since taking charge less than two weeks ago.

“I resigned as I didn’t agree with the current coaching set-up,” Smith said.

“I don’t want to be part of something I don’t feel part of. I still support the players all the way.”

Stokes last week promoted reserve-grade assistant coach David Seeds to the same position with the first-team, and drafted in Les Ashe, who was in joint charge of Workington Town for most of last season, as another assistant.

Smith featured for Haven as a player at scrum-half/hooker and later joined the coaching staff under Kevin Tamati.

In a statement, the Haven board stressed there were no hard feelings over his departure. “The board of directors wish it to be known that Peter has been a great servant of the club as a player and assistant coach,” the statement said.

”His services have benefited Whitehaven RLFC, and his dedication, commitment, and sense of humour at all times will be missed.

”Peter will always be made welcome at Whitehaven RLFC. The board of directors and everyone associated with the club wish him well for the future.

”Fitness coach Paul Taylor, who joined the club in the last off-season, has also stepped down.

Haven, without injured forwards David Fatialofa and Richard Fletcher, scored seven tries against Celtic last night, and Stokes was encouraged by the impressive performance.

He said: “We probably showed what this side is made of and their character.”