We use essential cookies and third-party cookies for content.

English Woman's Journal - Crusaders stick with coach Penney after woeful Super Rugby season

Crusaders stick with coach Penney after woeful Super Rugby season

SPORTS 01.08.2024
Crusaders stick with coach Penney after woeful Super Rugby season
Crusaders stick with coach Penney after woeful Super Rugby season / Photo: Sanka Vidanagama - AFP/File

Canterbury Crusaders said Thursday that Rob Penney will remain head coach for the 2025 Super Rugby season, despite overseeing the Christchurch club's worst campaign in more than 20 years.

Change text size:

The Crusaders were ninth of 12 teams in Penney's first season in charge and missed out on the playoffs after winning seven straight Super Rugby titles up to 2023 under Scott Robertson.

It left 2024 as their worst season since finishing 10th in 2001.

Chief executive Colin Mansbridge said independent reviews of the season contributed to more than 50 recommended changes, but replacing Penney was not among them.

"Rob's got the backing of the board and he's got the backing of the players," said Mansbridge.

Crusaders lost key players Richie Mo'unga and Sam Whitelock to overseas clubs while enduring a miserable run of injuries.

"At a high level, our worst result since 2001 created sleepless nights, no doubt about it," said Mansbridge who acknowledged fans' frustrations.

"Should our fans be gutted about where we ended up? Absolutely."

Sacking the coaches "and throwing grenades into a system which produced 14 championships over 26 years" would be like "killing the golden goose," he added.

"I think the story of the Crusaders in the final next year would be pretty outstanding and that's what we're banking on."

K.McMillan--EWJ

Featured

FA Cup Second-Round Draw Confirmed for Non-League and Midlands Clubs

The FA Cup second-round draw has been finalized, setting up crucial ties for non-league teams aiming to reach the third round proper. Several clubs from the Midlands, including Burton Albion and Kidderminster Harriers, have secured their next opponents following recent victories over lower-league opposition.

Panthers expected to begin 2027 NRL season away from new stadium

The new Penrith Stadium is expected to be ready in time for the opening round of the 2027 NRL season, but it’s still likely the Panthers is expected to be on the road for their early matches. There is no delay to the build of the new $309 million venue but there’s a lack of appetite for risk around weather delays through the summer.

Virginia overwhelms Arkansas 91-72 behind balanced scoring

WASHINGTON (AP) — Thijs De Ridder scored 16 points, one of five players in double figures for No. 9 Virginia as the Cavaliers routed No.

Tayyab Arif hits 57 on Pakistan Test debut against Sri Lanka

RAWALPINDI, Pakistan (AP) — Tayyab Arif smashed an aggressive half-century on debut and provided a new-look Pakistan lineup a confident start to the first cricket test against Sri Lanka on Monday. The 20-year-old Tayyab struck nine boundaries and a six in his 57-run knock as Pakistan reached 137-2 at lunch on a greenish wicket that lured Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis to bowl first after winning the toss.

Change text size: