Tom Tierney has fallen on his sword, after Ireland's disappointing performance at the Women's Rugby World Cup.
The Ireland head coach told RTÉ after the 7th Place Final defeat to Wales that it was his last game in charge of the team. He took charge after the 2014 World Cup, where the team finished in fourth place.
I've had three great years. I'm very, very proud of what I've done.
It wasn't an easy job coming into. We've brought through a lot of good players, and players who can play international rugby. Unfortunately, we don't have enough yet.
I suppose, where we are now is pretty much where we deserve to be, from a quality level.
Very pleased with my three years, and it's on to something different now.
Tom Tierney steps down as head coach of the Ireland Women's team #RTErugby #WRWC pic.twitter.com/201ab4jdLK
— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) August 26, 2017
In what was a disappointing World Cup for the hosts, Tierney has been at the forefront of criticism for performances on the field.
His predecessor Phillip Doyle was among those to criticise the team's preparations for the tournament. On Saturday morning, Ireland prop Ruth O'Reilly was critical of Tierney's role in the buildup to the tournament. The Galway-born forward was ruled out of the tournament after the pool stages.
While Tierney leaves his role as head coach of the Women's team, it looks like his role within the IRFU remains secure. According to The Irish Times' Gavin Cummiskey, Tierney will take up a yet-unannounced role within the organisation.
Tierney still has a job. Not Ireland women but appears to be with IRFU "It’s just a private thing at the moment. I won’t be under pressure.”
— Gavin Cummiskey (@Cumoski) August 26, 2017
Whatever happens, the women's team are on the lookout for a new coach. Whoever takes the role will have a lot of work to do, with the team looking set to qualify for the 2021 tournament.
