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St George Illawarra coach Steve Price has been sacked by the Dragons.
Price’s assistant Paul McGregor will take over the position until at least the end of the season.
The Dragons have slumped to six losses in their past seven games to be 13th on the ladder after a promising season start of three straight wins which had them on top.
Former assistant Price took over the reins for the start of the 2012 season when Wayne Bennett departed for Newcastle, having brought a long-sought premiership title to the joint venture in 2010.
However he was unable to bring similar success.
The Dragons finished ninth in 2012 and 14th last year, meaning Price was under big pressure to succeed this year following some big name signings including Josh Dugan and Gareth Widdop, with former Tigers star Benji Marshall also linking with the club a fortnight ago.
Dragons prop Trent Merrin spoke warmly of Price when informed of his impending departure in the NSW Origin camp in Brisbane.
“It’s come as a surprise and I am very sorry to hear it,” said Merrin.
“I have worked with him for a long time and not only is he a coach, he is also a mate.”
“Steve Price has been involved at our Club for over 13 years. He is a person of the highest integrity who has contributed enormously to our Club in so many ways throughout this time,” said Dragons CEO Peter Doust.
“Unfortunately team performance and results have not met the required standards, particularly this season, despite a refresh of performance management strategies and structure, at the end of last year, and a significant change to the playing roster.
“Whilst we can never predict the future, the Board determined that change was required for the balance of the 2014 season.
“The Club greatly appreciates and respects the commitment and work ethic that Steve has displayed at all times,” added Doust.
Price indicated that he was grateful his opportunities at the Dragons.
“I am grateful for the opportunities that the Dragons have provided me over all my years associated with the Club and would like to thank all involved,” said Price. “I’d like to wish Paul and the playing group all the very best”.
McGregor indicated that it was a difficult time and situation for everyone at the Dragons.
“The Board wanted the change to be as simple as possible for the players and for their sake I agreed,” said McGregor. “This is a difficult situation for me, Steve Price is a good friend of mine and we have worked closely together and I would have liked us to work through these tough times as one.
“This change will be a new challenge for the players to face but we have a good football team and good group of men”.
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