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Rugby Union

McCall quits struggling Ulster

13/11/2007

Ulster have announced that head coach Mark McCall has resigned from his post with immediate effect after a poor start to the season.

The Magners League side suffered a 32-14 defeat to Gloucester in the opening round of the Heineken Cup at Ravenhill at the weekend - their sixth straight match without a win.

Ulster's only victory so far this season was in the opening Magners League game against Ospreys and McCall has chosen to step aside in a bid to improve the club's form.

"Mark McCall tendered his resignation to myself and chairman Cecil Watson yesterday evening," said Ulster chief executive Michael Reid.

"The poor results this season have been very difficult for us all and ultimately have brought us to where we are today."

Steve Williams will take charge of team affairs with immediate effect.

Reid said McCall has been "an outstanding committed coach for Ulster", adding that he was "meticulous in his preparation [and] endeavoured to create an environment of empowerment for the players".

McCall himself said: "Over the last three and a half years it has been an absolute privilege for me to have been coach of the Ulster rugby team.

"Winning the Celtic League two seasons ago was a huge highlight and it has been very rewarding to watch the Ulster representation in the Irish squad rise year on year.

"During my time I have received fantastic support from the Ulster branch and I am grateful to have worked with a very professional management team who have become friends as well as colleagues.

"I believe the time is right for someone else to take the team forward and I would like to wish all concerned every success in the future."