Rangers blow as Geener quits role

PAUL GEENER cited lack of commitment from the players for his decision to stand down at Rangers

SADDLEWORTH Rangers have been dealt a big setback.

Paul Geener, a first team coach, has resigned from his position at the National Conference League outfit.

He has cited a lack of commitment from the players in a disappointing end to the Division Two season as the main reason for his departure.

Well-respected Geener came in to work alongside Craig Farrimond for the 2016 season after a number of successful years filling the same position at Waterhead.

Geener said: "We did well early on and won the Standard Cup and were going well.

"But then some players stopped turning up to training. It was incredibly frustrating and I don't want to go through that again.

'GREAT LADS'

"There are some great lads at Rangers, who I've loved working with and they know who they are. I was so proud to come to this club and it's disappointing the way it's worked out."

The Rangers committee will meet early next month to discuss how this changes plans for next season. Former Oldham RL player Farrimond, who's been a joint coach for the past three seasons, is keen to carry on.

Rangers chairman Shane Wilson said: "I'm sorry to lose him.

"He definitely made an impact on the first team's fortunes after joining us.

"I can sympathise with him being frustrated by a lack of commitment, but lots of players have already committed to playing for us next year and he now won't be here. But as a club we wish Paul all the best for the future."