McIntosh Replaces Rob Powell as Defence Coach

Pontypridd RFC Head Coach Dale McIntosh is to be announced as the Cardiff Blues’ new defence coach, under 48 hour after Rob Powell’s departure was confirmed.

The New Zealand-born Sardis Road hero will begin his new role with immediate effect.

Pontypridd’s official web site said of McIntosh’s departure,

‘It was inevitable that sooner or later our successful head coach would be appointed to a senior post at regional level.

Dale McIntosh has been associated with Pontypridd for 24 years. In that period his and his contribution to the success of the club cannot be over-estimated.’

McIntosh, who’s affectionately known as The Chief, had previously been employed on a part time basis with the region. Ironically, his promotion to full time defence coach comes after Sunday’s woeful capitulation against Exeter Chiefs.

The Blues conceded 5 tires in the first half, giving Exeter the bonus point and effectively the match after just thirty minutes. An imporved 2^nd half did see the Blues gain 4-try bonus point, but having missed 20 tackles – the majority of which in the first half – bosses reacted quickly to correct the faltering defence.

His first game in the new role comes this Saturday, as the Blues take on reigning Heineken Cup champions Toulon at the Arms Park.

Robin Copeland rightly returns to the starting line-up, having been the Blues’ outstanding player despite only playing the last half hour.  There’s also great news as Owen Williams returns to partner Cory Allen in the centre. Scott Andrews replaces Felise at prop.

Cardiff Blues:

Leigh Halfpenny; Alex Cuthbert, Owen Williams, Cory Allen, Harry Robinson; Rhys Patchell, Lloyd Williams; Gethin Jenkins, Matthew Rees, Scott Andrews, Bradley Davies, Filo Paulo, Josh Navidi, Sam Warburton, Robin Copeland.

Replacements: Marc Breeze, Sam Hobbs, Benoit Bourrust, Lou Reed, Rory Watts-Jones, Lewis Jones, Gareth Davies, Richard Smith.