Widnes confirm Francis Cummins and Eamon O’Carroll exits

Widnes have announced the departures of Francis Cummins and Eamon O’Carroll with immediate effect.

Cummins was appointed interim head coach in May after the club sacked then head coach Denis Betts, with O’Carroll being assistant coach.

But with the Vikings having won just one game since Cummins took over, the club have decided to part company with the pair.

Widnes chief executive James Rule said: “We have begun a re-structuring of our performance department as we refresh and rebuild ahead of the 2019 campaign.

“Our focus is to make an immediate return to the Betfred Super League in 2020.

“The first step in the restructuring process has been to agree the departures of coaches Francis Cummins and Eamon O’Carroll with immediate effect.

“We will now progress the process of appointing the new Head Coach for the 2019 season. We will keep members, supporters and partners informed when there are further updates to make with regards to the ongoing restructuring process.

“As I have previously stated, I would like to put on record the club’s thanks to Francis Cummins. Francis was offered a challenging role at a difficult time, when he was appointed as interim head coach, and showed great bravery and commitment in stepping up into the role. Whilst ultimately we haven’t achieved expectations on the pitch, we are grateful for his efforts and dedication.

“Eamon has been associated with Widnes Vikings since 2012, and throughout this period has shown real professionalism and commitment to the club as both a player and coach. Both Francis and Eamon leave with our respects and best wishes for their future careers.”