Halifax part company with Harrison

Ahead of their final regular Championship game of the season, in which they could still secure third spot, the news has come as a major surprise at The Shay.

On an interim basis, captain Scott Murrell will prepare the team for Sunday’s home match with Barrow Raiders, but the development raises huge question marks about the financial future of the West Yorkshire club which had expressed hopes of reaching Super League in 2015.

A statement read: “In the context of current difficulties within the club, for which they have no responsibility, the directors have agreed with Karl that his three-year contract should not be renewed, and have also agreed that he should have the immediate opportunity to pursue other opportunities, within the game.”

Chairman Michael Steele added: ‘Karl Harrison is an outstanding man, who has served this club with distinction on the field, as a member of its Hall of Fame, and as coach.

“His period in charge will particularly be remembered for the Northern Rail Cup win in 2011. His achievements with the limited resources at his disposal have been exceptional.

“Lee Greenwood is also a distinguished former player, whose coaching skills are outstanding as his successes with Calderdale College, demonstrate.

“When the time is right, and the club’s position improves, I can envisage his rejoining the coaching team.

“In the short term the club wishes both of them well.’