LEIGH Centurions have confirmed that they today received the resignation of Head Coach Paul Rowley who has decided to depart his role with immediate effect, releasing a personal statement via TotalRL.com after notifying the Board of Directors in writing.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Leigh Centurions, Club Owner Derek Beaumont said: “It’s a very sad day for Leigh Centurions and it is certainly not something that we wanted or expected to happen.

"It is still sinking in and I would have preferred time to pass but inevitable media pressure requires the club to respond officially in order to remove any speculation."

“Paul is a personal friend and has been a great servant to the Club as a player and more recently as a coach, achieving success in both roles."

“Whilst we are extremely disappointed and shocked we wish Paul Rowley well and I hope our fans will do the same.

"He is a proud, passionate man and deserves the utmost respect which he will always receive from me personally."

“I have spoken to the coaching staff and players and obviously it is a shock to all concerned and it is early days.

"At this moment that group is being led by Neil Jukes and I am assured will remain focused on achieving our goals."

“Neither I nor the Club will be commenting further on this matter.”