Shock as another URC coach is axed with ‘immediate effect’
Dai Flanagan and an insert of Filo Tiatia.
Following the news of Graham Rowntree’s departure from Munster, Dragons RFC have announced that Dai Flanagan has left his role.
Filo Tiatia has been named as Flanagan’s replacement on an interim basis with the Welsh region releasing a brief statement confirming their decision on Saturday.
Dai Flanagan departs
“Dragons RFC can today confirm the departure of Dai Flanagan from his role as Head Coach with immediate effect,” the statement read.
“The decision has been mutually agreed by all parties following extensive discussions regarding the club’s performance and future direction.
“After first joining the club in June 2022, Flanagan has taken sole charge of rugby operations for the last two seasons and into the start of the 2024/25 campaign.
“We thank Dai for his contribution, professionalism, and dedication to Dragons RFC throughout his time at the club and wish him and his family well for the future.
“Filo Tiatia will now take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach, supported by the current coaching staff.
“Dragons RFC will make further announcements on the coaching team going forward in due course.”
Worst record in the club’s history
Flanagan’s departure comes in the same week as Munster announced that they were parting ways with Rowntree.
Head of Rugby Operations, Ian Costello, has taken charge as interim head coach while Munster look for a permanent head coach.
The Dragons have got off to a slow start in the 2024/25 United Rugby Championship season winning just one of their opening six matches before the international break.
However, many were still left stunned by the decision to axe Flanagan as the Dragons looked a far more improved side and suffered a handful of narrow defeats after their victory over Ospreys in round one.
Flanagan took over as head coach at the Dragons just one game into the 2022/23 season following the departure of Dean Ryan. His interim replacement Tiata joined the side in the summer as defence coach.
While there are those who were shocked by the decision, Flanagan won just 10 of his 48 games in charge, which is the worst record of any Dragons boss since the team was formed more than 20 years ago.