Whiteheaven sack coach James Coyle

Whitehaven have sacked James Coyle as head coach after the team's 48-16 defeat to Sheffield Eagles last weekend.

Coyle had originally planned to step down at the end of the season due to work commitments but departs with five games still to play.

A statement from the club said: "The board of directors have decided that, due to recent circumstances, we are left with no option but to relieve the head coach of his duties with immediate effect.

"We wish James all the best in the future."

Whitehaven have slumped to the bottom of the league after winning just five out of 23 games played in this year's Kingstone Press Championship. 

The club have yet to announce who will be leading the team against Workington on Sunday.