Matt O'Connor Departs Leinster Rugby
Matt O’Connor has left Leinster by mutual agreement.
The Australian coach departs with a year to run on his contract.
Players and staff were told of the news at a meeting this morning at Leinster’s Head Office at UCD.
O’Connor has been at the club for two seasons, having taken over from Joe Schmidt in 2013.
He led Leinster to the Pro12 title last season, but they were knocked out of the Heineken Cup by Toulon at the quarter final stage.
Leinster have struggled this season, missing out on a semi final spot in the Pro 12 with a fifth place finish.
They were also knocked out of the Champions Cup at the semi final stage, again by Toulon.
Leinster's forwards coach Leo Cullen will take temporary charge, while the board look for a replacement.
O’Connor admitted they didn’t reach the targets set this season.
"I am disappointed and frustrated with our form in the PRO12 this season,” the Australian said.
"We set high standards for ourselves and for many reasons, we did not achieve those highs throughout the league this campaign.
"However the European journey that we took over two seasons, for a new group of coaches, players and staff, is one that we can be very proud of. The dynamic in Europe has changed with meritocracy and fewer teams competing and this has improved the quality. We went toe to toe with the best and there is no shame in losing to Toulon by the smallest of margins and I'm extremely proud of the group and the character shown.”
"I would like to thank my coaching team and the backroom staff for their support and for leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a performance every week.
"I'd also like to thank the players for their application during my time here. They have been a pleasure to work with and I will look back on my time with great fondness for what we achieved together.
"Finally, to the supporters, thanks for making me and my family feel welcome during our time here and I wish Leinster Rugby the very best of luck for the future.”
Leinster’s CEO Mick Dawson wished O’Connor well
“Matt will leave Leinster Rugby with the best wishes and thanks of all involved with the province for all his hard work during his two years.
"We wish Matt the very best of luck for the future and thank him sincerely for his contribution to Leinster.”