09 August 2023 , 17:26
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Wakefield have swooped to secure Sean Long as their new assistant coach - just days after his shock sacking as boss of Championship leaders Featherstone.
Bringing the ex-St Helens and Great Britain No7 in with just six games to go, is a massive boost for their fight against relegation considering his coaching experience in both codes. Wakefield boss Mark Applegarth has been looking for a new assistant ever since James Ford, ironically, left to become Featherstone's director of rugby in May.
Ford has now replaced Long at Post Office Road but Applegarth said: “I’m delighted to have Sean on the coaching staff for the remaining six games and next season. He brings a wealth of experience with him and I think he will add real value to our coaching and playing group. I feel like we will compliment each other well.”
Long, who was Leeds assistant when they reached Old Trafford last year and also acted as a No2 at St Helens before joining Harlequins RU, said: "I'm thrilled to be joining Wakefield at such a crucial point for them in the season.
"We had a good chat about what Mark felt I could bring to the club. Wakefield are now firmly in the business end of the season and every performance counts. I can’t wait to get out on the field with Mark and the team.”
Sean Long feels no "pressure" as St Helens partnership rekindled at Featherstone
Wakefield finally lifted off bottom for the first time in months when Castleford suffered a 28-0 home loss to Huddersfield on Friday.
That cost Andy Last his job at Castleford as they slipped to the relegation spot and Tigers are expected to name Danny Ward as his replacement ahead of the final run-win. Trinity, ahead on points difference, host Castleford in their next game on Friday week as a huge battle to avoid the drop gets underway in earnest.