Richard Marshall’s Halifax exit confirmed

Halifax have confirmed the surprise exit of coach Richard Marshall.

Marshall, 43, has been at The Shay since 2015 and led Halifax in to The Qualifiers three times in four years.

Speculation about his future grew on Friday evening, and it is believed he was told he would not be offered an extension to his current deal, which was due to end at the end of the season.

That resulted in a lengthy statement over the weekend which confirmed he would not take charge of the game against Sheffield.

Marshall said: “It is with regret that my time at Halifax has come to an end. Both parties agree that it is time to part ways.

“I have enjoyed all the challenges and successes of the last four seasons and leave a legacy that includes three top-four finishes and consistently overachieving with a team of highly committed part-time players.

“I am proud of my role in developing local talent by introducing an academy and a successful reserve grade team. Both have produced countless numbers of elite players who have gone on to play first team rugby.

“Currently 12 of the first team squad have come through our system with a further five also playing at International level. This is something I’m immensely proud of.”

Marshall spent four seasons with Halifax as a player, as well as turning out for Huddersfield, London, Leigh and Swinton.