Beaumont: Sad day for Leigh

Leigh owner Derek Beaumont says he and the club’s directors are shocked and disappointed with the sudden departure of head coach Paul Rowley.

Rowley resigned today with immediate effect from Leigh, citing personal reasons.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Leigh Centurions, Club Owner Derek Beaumont said: “It’s a very sad day for Leigh Centurions and it is certainly not something that we wanted or expected to happen.

“It is still sinking in and I would have preferred time to pass but inevitable media pressure requires the club to respond officially in order to remove any speculation.

“Paul is a personal friend and has been a great servant to the Club as a player and more recently as a coach, achieving success in both roles.

“Whilst we are extremely disappointed and shocked we wish Paul Rowley well and I hope our fans will do the same. He is a proud, passionate man and deserves the utmost respect which he will always receive from me personally.

“I have spoken to the coaching staff and players and obviously it is a shock to all concerned and it is early days. At this moment that group is being led by Neil Jukes and I am assured will remain focused on achieving our goals.

“Neither I nor the Club will be commenting further on this matter.”