THE blows keep raining down on Keighley Cougars.
They saw head coach Alan Kilshaw depart unexpectedly on Monday to join Oldham, while key back rower Brad England quit to sign for North Wales a couple of weeks before Christmas.
And now another important forward has seemingly swapped Cougar Park for Colwyn Bay.
Former Leigh prop Mark Ioane has been integral in Keighley’s front row for the past three seasons, and he was expected to be so again this year in the new 21-team Betfred Championship.
But the 35-year-old has now asked to be released by the club, and according to reports, he looks set to link up with former Cougars coaches Jake Webster and Dean Muir at North Wales.
In confirming his departure from Keighley, Ioane told their official club website: “Thank you to all involved at Keighley, from staff to players, for the past few years.
“Not an easy decision, but respect to the club for acknowledging my situation.
“Special mention to the fans for their unwavering support as always, my family and I have always appreciated it.”
For their part, Cougars said: “The club has worked closely with Mark regarding his situation and respects his decision, granting the release by mutual agreement.
“We would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Mark for his contributions during his time at the club and wish him and his family every success in the future.
“The club can also confirm that additional budget will now be available to (interim head coach) Dan Burton as the search begins for a valuable replacement to strengthen the squad moving forward.”
