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The former Ireland international has been thrust into a head coach role just months before moving to Wales
New Scarlets defence coach Eamon O’Carroll has been put in interim charge of Super League giants St Helens after their head coach stepped down just one day before a massive derby.
Paul Rowley left the rugby league outfit on Thursday, just 24 hours before they take on Wigan Warriors on Friday. The 51-year-old had joined the club before the 2026 season, having previously been in charge at Salford Red Devils.
He leaves after less than a year in the job, with the Saints having struggled for form. Amid an injury crisis, the club currently sit sixth in the table – having lost six out of their last 10 games.
It now leaves O’Carroll, who will take over as Scarlets’ defence coach midway through next season, as the interim head coach at the club.
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The former Ireland rugby league international, who played for Wigan, Hull FC and Widnes in his playing days, was announced as former Lions centre Jared Payne’s replacement earlier this summer.
Given his club commitments with the Saints, the west Walians have brought in former captain Steff Hughes to look after the defence until the Super League season is over.
O’Carroll will now spend the last part of his final season in the 13-a-side code with some added responsibilities.
Having had spells as assistant at Catalans Dragons, O’Carroll has also been head coach at Newcastle Thunder and Bradford Bulls.
“The decision was an extremely difficult one for all concerned, and we fully recognise the extra challenges that Paul faced with us this particular season,” St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus said.
“We as a club must now look forward and do all within our powers to preserve our position as the most successful club in the history of Super League and to restore our position as a silverware contender going forward.”
Rowley had replaced Paul Wellens earlier this year, after the former full-back opted not to extend his contract.
The season began with Saints winning 11 of their first 13 matches.
However, a Challenge Cup semi-final defeat to Wigan saw their identity questioned by Warriors boss Matt Peet.
Since then, their form has spiralled – including a 46-0 hammering by Toulouse this month – has seen them fall down the table, with their hopes of reaching the play-offs having been knocked.
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