Two Rugby League coaches out after only a few games in charge

Two Championship and League 1 rugby league coaches have been sacked only two games into the new season following disappointing results.

First, Jake Webster has resigned from his head coach role at Keighley Cougars, citing ‘negative press, my mental health and wellbeing needs’.

This news comes just days after the Cougars were thumped 44-0 by Rochdale Hornets to start their 2025 League 1 campaign.

Webster will remain at the club but will now work “looking at Commercial opportunities and Community development on a full-time basis.”

In a statement on their website, Webster addressed the negative comments he and his squad have received over recent days.

He said: “I must urge supporters to think before they comment on social media as we do not want to drive good people and players away from this club.

“We have a lot of talent at this club, young talent that we want to keep. A hostile and toxic surrounding doesn’t aid our chances in keeping that talent.”

Jordie Hedges will take the interim head coach role whilst the club looks for Webster’s long-term, permanent replacement. Webster is the first of two coaching casualties this week.

Next, Featherstone Rovers have announced head coach James Ford has left his role with immediate effect. Ford has been at Rover since 2023 but a tough start to the rugby league season has meant his time there has come to an end.

Featherstone beat Doncaster 22-4 in their first game before a 14-12 loss to London Broncos at the weekend. However, it was not enough for Ford to keep his job, with current Ireland boss Ged Corcoran as one of the lead candidates to take over.

Via social media, the club thanked Ford ‘for his hard work through a transitional period for the club’ and will make a further announcement when a new head coach is appointed.

The two Championship and League 1 coaches leave their respective clubs in the hunt for new bosses on the weekend before round 1 of the 1895 Cup. These sides actually face each other on Sunday at 2pm at Post Office Road.