Fans have reacted after Huddersfield Giants confirmed they have sacked head coach Ian Watson with immediate effect.
In an incredibly short statement, the club announced today: “Following today’s scheduled monthly board meeting the club has stood down Head Coach Ian Watson with immediate effect.
“Luke Robinson will take charge of the team ahead of the upcoming Betfred Super League game at Leigh on the weekend, neither the club nor Ian will make any further comment.”
The Giants had lost eight of their last nine games in all competitions, a far cry from when they were putting up 50 points against Castleford and Hull FC near the start of this season.
Fans react to Huddersfield Giants sacking Ian Watson
One fan was quick to note that at the end of the day, this is a man who has lost his job.
He was clearly feeling the pressure and had stuggled to get his side performing, which is an unfortunate part of the sport we love.
You know what, now it’s done let’s all settle & remember we’re dealing with a person. And also a manger who took us to a cup final & 3rd in the league, but it just didn’t work out . For the vast majority of fans, this is the right call. But thank you Ian.
— Chris Allen (@C_J_Allen15) July 11, 2024
Others noted that the short statement was very odd – he had been with the Giants for three years, and there was no recognition of any of the work he had done for the club in what was a two-sentence statement with questionable use (and lack) of commas.
Terribly worded statement
— Josh Phillips (@JoshPhillips180) July 11, 2024
Bit strange to not even thank him for his services ?
— MDT (@TigerTowns88) July 11, 2024
Others used the time to call on the club to recall Matty English from his loan with Castleford Tigers, where he has been widely praised for his contribution to Craig Lingard’s side in their recent performances.
Someone getting Matty on the phone #bringmattyback #savethepolarbear
— Chris Allen (@C_J_Allen15) July 11, 2024
Could’ve waited until after English joins us permanently🤦♂️
— Brandan Gardner (@GardnerBrandan) July 11, 2024
Some suggested that this was a decision that should have been made some time ago, as performances have been poor long before recent weeks.
A year late really. Thanks for the hardwork but the style of rugby was awful to watch.
Has Thewlis gone too???
Jason Demetriou or Justin Holbrook in please— Bernie (@MonsieurBernie) July 11, 2024
Should have gone in May last year!! Club far too slow again to react.
— Jason Peter (@jp_jasonpeter) July 11, 2024
Huddersfield Giants will now be on the prowl for a replacement for Watson, but at this stage of the season, their immediate options are few and far between. However, Justin Holbrook, Jason Demetriou, Rohan Smith and Tony Smith may all be options the Giants look towards in the coming weeks.
