Samoan rugby has been rocked by the sudden resignation of head coach Alama Ieremia.
The former All Black, who was appointed head coach in late 2015 after a stint as Samoa Rugby’s high performance director, had been contracted through to the 2019 World Cup.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I have decided to stand down as head coach of Manu Samoa,” Leremia said in a statement.
“I took on this role knowing the challenging circumstances and the changing profile and landscape of international rugby for Manu Samoa.
“Although the goal was to win and build towards the World Cup in Japan, the losses of this campaign have proven too costly for everyone,” he added.
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“I feel I still have much to give this role so I’m hugely disappointed with this outcome, but as head coach, I alone must take full responsibility for our results.
“I believe my decision today is the best one for our beloved Manu Samoa team.”