Switch to Stirling starts Stags search Deacons mov

The Glensburgh side hope to begin interviews next month for the position after four years under the coach from Crieff.

Deacons will return to former club Stirling County to coach the Bridgehaugh club’s Wolves team.

Stags President Alan McKenzie said: “Our head coach, Craig Deacons, has decided to move on after four years at the club and is returning to Stirling County to coach the Wolves. We thank Craig for all his hard work over the last few seasons and wish him and his family every success in the future. We are now seeking a replacement coach and an advertisement has been posted this week. We would hope to have interviews in May and announce the successful candidate as soon as possible thereafter.”

The Stags have, like the rest of Scottish rugby and the wider sporting world, been out of action due to the coronavirus crisis.

Rugby leagues were paused and then declared null and void - but that will not affect the Glensburgh club. Subsequent league restructure could, perhaps, but at this stage it’s as you were for Grangemouth’s three teams.

They were one of the last sporting fixtures to take place when they won the Albyn Jenkins Shield in Wales last month

President McKenzie added in his statement to club members: “Once the lockdown is over we will try to return to some form of normality as quickly as possible and will aim to have a series of events involving all sections of the club. Suggestions are welcome but could include a family fun day, club party night and the players and supporters dinner or awards night.

“As I have said it is a very difficult time for all of us and the rugby club may not be a high priority to members at the moment. However the aim is to have the clubhouse, gym and barn back open to members as soon as the restrictions are lifted and to prepare for season 20/21 whenever it starts. Meantime stay safe and look after yourself, your family, friends and neighbours.”