Elwood to take charge in Connacht

[snoopy snoopy dog dog]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div>

http://www.irishtimes.com/sports/rugby/201...4265475357.html

Eric Elwood is expected to be named as Connacht coach for next season within the next 24 hours. Connacht have called a press conference for 11.30am tomorrow morning where Elwood is due to be announced as the successor to the outgoing Michael Bradley.

Bradley signalled his intention to stand down after seven years in charge last November and Elwood, who has worked as his assistant coach for the last four and a half seasons, is set to be handed the reins tomorrow.

It is expected that Elwood will only be awarded a one-year deal due to the unpopular IRFU policy of only permitting one-year contracts for those already on the province’s books.

The former Ireland international made 168 appearances for the province over 17 seasons, between 1989 and 2005, and has also coached the Irish under-20s side since retiring as a player.[/b]

Not surprising. I'd imagine quite a few of Elwood's former charges as U-20 coach will be interested in a move west - Eoin O'Malley, Jason Harris Wright, Shane Monahan, Paul O'Donohoe, Tommy O'Donnell, Eoghan Grace, Conor McInerney, Niall Morris and Thomas Anderson among others can expect an approach from Connacht.

 

[feicarsinn]

Very good appointment imo. Has done a very good job with the underage setup at national level and will no doubt aplly his qualities to Connacht.

 

[munstermuffin]

Good news as he'll put a bit of fire and spirit into Connacht.

Let's hope the IRFU support him properly now and let him have a good cut off it.

 

[snoopy snoopy dog dog]

Now confirmed. Audio of the press conference here:
http://www.knockon.ie/audio/elwoodpressconference.mp3