Edinburgh Rugby announced today that Rob Moffat is standing down as head coach following his appointment in July 2009. His current assistant and Scotland A head coach Nick Scrivener is taking over head coach duties until the end of this season.

Chief Executive of Scottish Rugby, Gordon McKie, thanked Rob for his significant efforts in developing Edinburgh Rugby both as assistant coach and head coach.

McKie said: “Clearly, we were all disappointed at the end of last season, when Edinburgh were unsuccessful in their bid to reach the Magners League play-offs, and results this season have not been as we would have hoped for.

“Rob is equally disappointed with these outcomes as he has always given the club his total and absolute commitment, and acted with great dignity and professionalism.

“Rob is rightly held in great affection by Edinburgh and Scottish rugby fans and it is with a degree of regret that we make today’s announcement.

“However, as we are now in the middle of the season, we need to look ahead. We will therefore advertise the role, to find a coach who will help us restore Edinburgh to more regular winning ways.

“On behalf of Edinburgh and Scottish Rugby, I have thanked Rob for his hard work and dedication, and have asked him to take a short break. Upon his return, we will discuss the potential to agree a different role for Rob elsewhere in Scottish Rugby”

Edinburgh Rugby’s Chief Executive, Craig Docherty added: ”It’s been a pleasure to work with Rob and I know that no one has been more frustrated than him at some of our results this season. He has great respect across the rugby community having been involved in a variety of roles at all levels of the game.

“Looking ahead, I believe that Nick will offer the required continuity, having been at the club for 18 months. I very much look forward to seeing the players respond, and to working with him to ensure the club progresses in the Magners League.”

Interim Head Coach Nick Scrivener stated: “I am very much looking forward to the challenge of taking the team forward and I will doing everything I can to bring success to Edinburgh Rugby in the second half of the season.”