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'Ruthless, unexpected and sad': First reactions as Craig Lingard departs Castleford Tigers

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com -Castleford coach Craig Lingard has been sacked
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Craig Lingard being sacked as Castleford Tigers head coach has led to a strong reaction, with it being described as "ruthless", "unexpected" and "sad" on social media.

Lingard had led the club to a 10th-placed finish in Super League after taking over following an 11th-placed finish the previous season, when he was assistant to Andy Last. Former Keighley and Batley boss Lingard had taken charge on a two-year deal, taking over after Last's departure. But he has gone ahead of the IMG scores being announced on Wednesday. New investor Martin Jepson said it "wasn't an easy decision" but he wanted a "new voice".

On social media platform X, there was shock after the news:

@TigerTowns88 wrote: "Ruthless. I feel Craig deserved another season with less chaos. 5 days ago MJ was saying we overachieved last season. How many coaches get fired on the back of overachieving? That said, there's to be wholesale changes...thanks to CL and good luck with the future. Great guy."

@downhamdn wrote: "Wow. Wasn't expecting that. I liked Linners - he spoke really well and wore his heart on his sleeve. I guess MJ has someone better in mind"

@StevenJHaslam: "Thats a strange one, cant see this happening if there wasnt already somebody in the pipeline!"

@DaveyC0511: "Sad for CL who’s an honest decent guy tbf we need a “coach with super league experiences and a winning track record” to raise our game faster than the plan CL stuck to, albeit DW’s plan Good luck Craig"

@lufc1108: "Gutted, great bloke and did well with the hand he was dealt with. Sure, we were very poor last year, but could’ve also been so much worse and with the limited resources, he did a good job. Jepson obviously is showing ambition and has someone in mind. All the best Linners!"

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