Rea to leave Harlequins in search of coaching job

Tony Rea is to leave Harlequins, the club where he has been a stalwart for 13 years, to return to coaching elsewhere.

The Australian first arrived at the then London Broncos as a player in 1994 and has been chief executive, head coach and, most recently, director of sport.

"I'm missing coaching at the highest level, which is where I feel my strengths lie ," said Rea, who is expected to remain at The Stoop to ease the transition and await a suitable job.

"We are desperately sorry to see Tony go, but we can't stand in his way," said Quins' chairman, Ian Lenagan. Also leaving is winger Andy Smith, who is joining Halifax.

Wigan's New Zealand prop, Iafeta Paleaaesina, has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a bus driver in the town last week.

The current Kiwi squad flew into Britain yesterday amid allegations of sexual assault by a woman in Wellington, where the Kiwis played Australia at the weekend.

Hull KR have signed Clint Newton, a member of Melbourne's winning team in the Australian Grand Final last month. The back-rower had hoped to stay with the Storm, but was forced out by the club's salary cap and is instead joining Rovers on a two-year deal.

Salford, relegated this year, have signed Widnes' promising 17-year-old half-back, Richard Myler, on a three-year contract.

"Richard's signing is an indication of the quality players we are bringing to the Reds," said their coach, Shaun McRae. "I believe he is integral to the future of the club."

The transfer continues the break-up of Widnes' squad since the club went into administration after losing the National League 1 Grand Final, although a consortium led by the former director, Lol Ogburn, say that they have put together a rescue package.

Castleford have re-signed the back-rower, Ryan Clayton on a two-year deal. The club has released Michael Knowles and Jason Payne.

Cas have 15 players under contract and their football manager, Mick Robinson, is to go to Australia to recruit reinforcements.

Leigh have signed Mark Roberts from Halifax, as well as Toa Kohe-Love and Gareth Price, from Widnes. The young prop, Craig Kopczak, has been given a 12-month deal at Bradford.