How’s this for a fall from grace?
May 31st the New South Wales Origin side was riding high after absolutely mauling Queensland in Game 1 of the 2017 series to the tune of 28-4.
Fast forward not even three months, and Blues coach Laurie Daley has been shown the door.
NSW Rugby League today informed Daley that he would be removed as coach of the Blues, with the governing body opting not to offer him a new contract.
Daley’s deal to serve as coach of the Blues expired this year, but after the almighty collapse of the Blues in this year’s series it seemed almost an inevitability that Daley would not return to the coach’s box in 2018.
NSWRL boss George Peponis (hilarious surname TBH) confirmed that Daley would be jettisoned into the great coaching beyond a short while ago:
I have spoken with Laurie and he understands the decision. He is obviously disappointed but he has enjoyed the journey and appreciated the opportunity. Obviously we thank Laurie for the significant contribution he has made over the past five years.
He is a legend of the game and has done a tremendous job. He is the only New South Wales coach in the past 12 years who has won a State of Origin Series. We felt it was time to make a change. All aspects of the business will be looked at from coaching staff to team operations and personnel.
Meanwhile Daley issued a short statement to the press with a string of words that you can practically feel being written through gritted teeth.
I understand that the business is results-driven and I respect the decision of the board to go in another direction. I will always support New South Wales and I wish their team and their coach every success in the future.
Daley took over as Blues coach in 2013 and guided them through 5 series, with one sole win – NSW’s only series win over QLD in the past 12 years – in 2014 to his name.
Former Blues coach Brad Fittler is an early favourite to take over as Blues coach, as the NSW side undergoes a major organisational overhaul and restructure.
