RugbyL: Manly sack coach Toovey
Australian National Rugby League team Manly Sea Eagles on Tuesday sacked coach Geoff Toovey.
SYDNEY (AFP) - Australian National Rugby League team Manly Sea Eagles on Tuesday sacked coach Geoff Toovey, with Trent Barrett to take over next season.
The announcement ended months of speculation after a disappointing year for Manly, who are languishing 11th on the 16-team ladder.
Toovey, who has taken Manly to a preliminary final, a grand final and a semi-final since taking over from Des Hasler in 2012, will remain in charge until the end of the season before leaving.
"This has been an intense and thorough process to ensure the long-term future and ongoing success of the club," said Manly chairman Scott Penn, who indicated further changes were afoot.
"Significant changes will be occurring. These changes won t take away from the success the club has enjoyed, but will help reinforce the foundation for a successful future. We are excited about 2016 and beyond."
Former St George-Illawarra, NSW Origin and Australian Test star Barrett has been handed a three-year contract.
The Sea Eagles need to win six of their remaining seven games this season to qualify for the finals series.
