HARROGATE rugby union club's inspirational captain for the last five years Rhys Morgan is to take over the role of head coach - and might combine it with playing.

Scrum-half Morgan, 36, who was out injured for around half of last season, takes over from Ralph Zoing, the club's former stand-off who, after five years in the hot seat, has opted to commit more time to his business interests and his family. His assistant, former Headingley flanker Martin Pepper, who is from York, also steps down.

Morgan said he was looking forward to the new challenge and would be putting together his own coaching team, which already includes former England stand-off Roger Shackleton.

But Morgan said he had not ruled out playing as well as coaching and would give consideration to the dual role. But though the majority of the first team squad will remain at Claro Road, he will concentrate on signing new players to aid a push for promotion from National Two.

Chairman of rugby Gerry Chambers said: ''Rhys has been a popular captain and we are confident he will make the same success of the coaching job. The club is grateful for the job done by Ralph Zoing and wishes him and his family a happy and successful future.''

Harrogate will start the new season on September 4 with a home game against newly-promoted Launceston.

Updated: 10:46 Wednesday, June 02, 2004