FRESH START FOR GREENS COACH

Kristian Truelsen • Published 29 Apr 2010 09:00 0 Comments

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PASTURES NEW: Liam McIntyre

DEPARTING Helensburgh supremo Liam McIntyre revealed it was hard to say goodbye to his players last Saturday as his reign at Ardencaple came to an end.

The former Greens head coach, who will take over as forwards coach at promoted GHK next season, watched his side lose 28-8 against champions Allan Glens in his final outing in charge.

And this week he has admitted that the 80 minutes were an emotional rollercoaster ride for him because he was so desperate to enjoy one last win as Burgh boss.

He told Sport Scene: "Out of the last eight games we won five in a row and then lost our last three games.

"It was a bit emotional but I was still striving for the team to be successful.

"We were playing good progressive rugby which was satisfying.

"In over two and a half years we have built a good foundation for a league winning side, whether it's next season or the season after. It was a bit sad to leave the squad and I would have wanted to take them to that win so there was a bag of mixed emotions.

"I will take over as forwards coach at GHK which is great for me as it is five minutes from my doorstep and I'm not involved in selection on a Saturday."

McIntyre has been satisfied with his players' performances this season which has seen the Greens rise to seventh in the second half of the season.

And there was also special praise for club skipper David Riding after his incredible displays at stand-off this season.

McIntyre said: "This season we have had a bit of misfortune with the weather and injuries.

"I would have wanted to get promotion this season, but after the winter we went on a great run which was great to see. David Riding has been massive for the club. He was a natural centre but he has been a first-class stand off for us this season."

The Burgh coach pinpointed his first game in charge of Helensburgh, who were struggling to stay away from relegation danger, as one of his highlights from his time in charge.

He said: "When I took over the team were in dire straits. The team were disheartened but they showed passion and their true colours on my first match in charge.

"I brought a team of 17 to play against Duns at Berwick - we needed to win. It wasn't the strongest team I put out, I had players out of position.

"But it was a display of pure passion and it was a massive win for us as it went down to the wire.

"Another highlight was when we played Lasswade and they had been the dominant team that season and we absolutely annihilated them. It was pure passion and it was a great win for us."

The search for a new coach is now under way and Sport Scene will keep readers updated on the situation.

This article appeared in Helensburgh Advertiser 29 Apr 10

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