RUGBY: Coach Spike to step down (From Herald Series)

RUGBY: Coach Spike to step down

6:15pm Wednesday 15th April 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share

Simon Henderson is stepping down from Wallingford’s coaching team to concentrate on his construction business, writes Ed Mezzetti.

Henderson will join head coach Chris Norrington for the final time on the touchline for Saturday’s South West 2 East clash at Reading.

During his three years at the club, Wallingford have twice been promoted and have established themselves at the highest level in their history.

Henderson, who is known as Spike, said: “I’ve enjoyed it for three years, but I have got to focus on my business more than anything, especially in this financial climate.

“I will never say never as to a return, and I will always go down and watch them.

“We are all going out next Saturday after the match, and it is nice it is against Reading – my old club.

“I have not been able to give Chris Norrington 100 per cent due to my business and he needs someone who can do that.”

Meanwhile, Wallingford’s second team have completed a remarkable hat-trick of titles.

A 30-10 victory over Henley Wanderers 2nd saw them crowned BB&O Premier A champions, after winning the Division 1 South title last season and Division 2 South in 2006-07.

Captain Dan White said: “New coach Martin Moran has been brought in from the colts side and has been instrumental in bringing through new players into the set up.”

Harwell will hope to pull off a second successive giant-killing in the Oxfordshire Veterans Cup after defeating Banbury 32-7 in the semi-finals.

They now face Chinnor in the final at Oxford RFC on April 29.

Skipper Mike Giddings scored two tries while others came from Rob Hawthorne and Owen Sutcliffe. Dave Bea-ven added a 12 points with his boot.

Abingdon Colts secured international success on tour with a 12-5 victory over the Maltese national under 19 team.

Abingdon proved more than a match for their hosts at Marsa Sports Stadium.

After 15 minutes, Abing-don’s Mike Janes cut in and scored the first try of the match.

Scrum half and man of the match Mike Hawthorn then sprinted in for try No 2, which Jamie Cummings converted.

Malta managed a second-half try, but Abingdon held on to win.

• Print
• Email
• Share