Rhyl 1879 confirm who will take charge after Paul Moore sacking

Rhyl 1879 have confirmed their interim management team following the sacking of manager Paul Moore, with Steve Giblin set to take charge as the club search for a permanent appointment.

Giblin, who joined the Cymru North club as assistant manager this summer, will oversee first-team affairs for the interim period, supported by Zion Hopkins.

The announcement comes as the Lilywhites prepare to welcome Newtown on Saturday, with Rhyl 1879 looking to get their season back on track after a difficult run of results.

Hopkins joined the club’s coaching set-up in November 2025 and brings experience from several roles across Welsh football, while Giblin has previously managed St Asaph and served as assistant manager at Colwyn Bay.

Rhyl 1879 confirm interim management team after Paul Moore departure

Giblin will lead the team during the search for Moore’s permanent successor, with the club having already outlined the qualities and experience they want from their next manager.

The vacancy was advertised on October 11, with interested applicants given until 9pm on Friday, October 23, 2026, to contact the club.

Giblin’s experience includes his spell as manager of St Asaph and his work as assistant manager at Colwyn Bay. He is also the father of Rhyl first-team player Joel Giblin.

Hopkins, meanwhile, has built up coaching experience at academy and senior level, having worked with Bala Town Academy and Connah’s Quay Town.

He began his football journey at Borras Park Albion at the age of 11 before taking on the role of first-team manager at just 17, following the reformation of the side.

After two years in charge, during a period affected by Covid-related disruptions, Hopkins moved to Bala Town Academy, where he coached the under-15s and under-16s.

He also pent three seasons with Connah’s Quay Town, helping the club achieve promotion to Tier 3.

Zion Hopkins sends message to Rhyl fans ahead of Newtown fixture

Hopkins has called on Rhyl supporters to get behind the team as they prepare for a challenging home fixture against Newtown.

He said: “After a tricky period and a week break we’re back at home as we take on a Newtown side who are full of confidence after a good start to the season.

“We are eager to get back in front of the Lilywhites faithful and produce a performance to gain three points. See you all Saturday.”

First-team player Reece Fairhurst has also highlighted the importance of the fixture, recognising the challenge posed by a well-organised Newtown side.

Fairhurst said: “Looking ahead to Saturday’s fixture and it’s a tough one for us against a well organised team.

“It’s a massive game so hoping for a good turn out again from our fans, and get behind the lads.”

The fixture offers Rhyl an opportunity to respond on home soil as the interim management team begins its spell in charge.

Rhyl face tough test against third-placed Newtown

Rhyl head into the game with 10 points from a possible 30, leaving them looking for a significant improvement as the Cymru North campaign progresses.

Their recent form has seen them record three draws and two defeats in their last five matches, meaning they are still searching for a return to winning ways.

Newtown, by contrast, sit third in the table with 23 points from the same number of games and arrive having lost just once in their last five outings.

The visitors’ strong start to the season presents a difficult test for Rhyl, who will be hoping the home crowd can help inspire a much-needed result.

With the search for a permanent manager continuing, Saturday’s meeting will provide Giblin and Hopkins with an early opportunity to make an impact and give the Lilywhites something to build on.