Bulldogs management steps down
24/07/2008 17:59  - (SA)  

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East London - In an unprecedented move, the Border Rugby Football Union (BRFU) have asked the Border Bulldogs management team to temporarily step down.

The decision was made this week ahead of the Bulldogs' Currie Cup First Division match against the Eagles in George on Saturday.

Those instructed to step aside are chief coach Humphrey Nojoko, team manager Roderick Jonkers, fitness coach Denzil van Heerden and physiotherapist Johan Wessels.

Recently appointed assistant Bulldogs coach Anton Jacobs is not affected as he's not on the BRFU payroll.

BRFU general manager Leon Botha on Thursday confirmed the decision. "It has come to our attention there are serious differences of opinion within the management team and we have given them time off until this coming Tuesday pending an internal inquiry," said Botha.

"It's an internal problem and those involved have been told to think about how best they can sort out their differences."

Thoroughly examined

Botha added the Bulldogs players had been informed and that he (Botha) would be seeing to the logistics of the team in George.

BRFU fixtures manager Phindile Majiji is to manage the side.

BRFU president Cliffie Pringle said that a special meeting had been called for over the weekend where the differences would be thoroughly examined and ironed out.

"We felt that we had to do something to save the ship from sinking and I'm sure after the weekend's discussions we'll know the way forward, Pringle said.

He added that the decision had not been an easy one and it had been made after consultations with the deputy president and vice-president of the BRFU, along with the rest of the Border committee.

"I personally briefed the players in the presence of the team managers and I'm sure the changes won't affect the performances of the team in Saturday's match."

Those affected have been barred from speaking to the media.

When asked to comment on his suspension, Nojoko was reluctant.

"All I can say is that things are going on that I cannot at this stage speak about. I can't comment further," he said.

The Bulldogs have had a poor run of results over the past two seasons with Nojoko coming under fire from certain quarters, but there are others who felt the blame should not be pinned on the head coach only.

- SAPA

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