No grudge from coach Sam Saif towards Gold Coast Premier League’s Nerang Eagles after exit

A GOLD Coast Premier League soccer coach who was suddenly fired last week said the reason for his sacking was because the club had “run out of money”.

A DISAPPOINTED Sam Saif insists he holds no grudges towards Nerang despite his sudden departure from the Gold Coast Premier League club.

Brought to Glennon Park in the off-season, the former Wynnum Wolves and Sheffield United Academy mentor was conspicuously absent from the Eagles’ 4-2 loss to second-placed Burleigh Heads on Saturday.

The proud Englishman had steered them to within sight of the top four in their Premier League return but was told last week the club had “run out of money”.

Gold Coast United Under-15 NPL Girls’ coach Keith Garland will take the reins for the remainder of the season, after Gary Scott stood in as interim coach on Saturday.

Saif, 57, said he considered seeing out the season, but the two-hour trip to Nerang from his Bribie Island home forced his hand.

“There’s no hard feelings,” Saif said.

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Coach Sam Saif has left Nerang. Picture: Chris McCormack.

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“If the club can’t afford to pay players and coaches you’ve just got to deal with it. The club were really good to me and it’s a really nice club.

“These things happen in life and I don’t want to bankrupt the club. We had a decent squad and I’m very disappointed it ended like that.

“I don’t hold any grudges, I just hope they can finish off the season as well as possible.”

Nerang president Michael Opie assured players and fans the club was financially stable, adding Saif had been a welcome addition.

“Sam’s been a great asset for us. He’s a great coach,” Opie said.

The Eagles now sit seventh on the Premier League ladder, seven points adrift of the top four heading into tomorrow night’s home battle with the Gold Coast Knights.