‘Incredibly proud’ – Rhyl boss breaks silence after being sacked

Paul Moore has issued a statement after being relieved of his duties as Rhyl 1879 manager, bringing an end to his spell in charge of the Lilywhites following a difficult start to the Cymru North season.

Moore’s final game at the helm was Thursday night’s 1-1 draw away to Ruthin Town, a result which extended Rhyl’s winless run in the league to five matches.

The Belle Vue outfit currently sit 10th in the Cymru North table, having recorded just two wins from their opening 10 outings.

The club’s decision marks a significant change for Rhyl, who enjoyed an impressive first season back in the second tier of Welsh football under Moore’s leadership.

Paul Moore breaks silence after Rhyl 1879 departure

In a statement addressing everyone connected with the club, Moore expressed his gratitude to Rhyl’s board of directors for the opportunity to manage the team over the past two years.

He said: “Following the decision by the club to relieve me of my duties, I am writing to address everyone connected with CPD Y Rhyl 1879.

“First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to the Board of Directors for their support and the opportunity to manage this great football club over the past two years.

“When I arrived, we set out with a clear vision to push this club forward. I am incredibly proud that we achieved exactly that.”

Moore took charge in November 2024 and immediately made an impact, guiding Rhyl to the Ardal North West title at the first attempt and securing promotion to the Cymru North.

The former manager leaves with a record of achievement at the club, despite the disappointing results that have contributed to his departure this season.

Injuries and squad changes have made campaign challenging

Moore acknowledged that results had fallen short of expectations during the current campaign, while pointing to a difficult run of injuries, suspensions and changes to his squad.

“Football is undeniably a results business, and I fully understand that our standards this season have not been where we want them to be.

“It has been a highly challenging campaign, disrupted heavily by a relentless wave of injuries, suspensions, and constant squad changes.”

The statement also alluded to the scrutiny that comes with management, with Moore insisting he had remained professional throughout his time at the club.

“Opinions in football are always divided, and as a manager, you frequently have to block out external noise to focus on what matters.

“Even when it has been incredibly hard to ignore, I have always maintained the highest level of professionalism for the sake of the club, my players, my management team, and myself.

“Every single decision I made during my tenure was done with the absolute best interests of Rhyl FC at heart.”

Rhyl enjoyed memorable Welsh Cup run under Moore

Moore’s departure comes despite a successful first season in the Cymru North following Rhyl’s return to the second tier.

The phoenix club finished fifth last season, a highly creditable achievement after winning promotion from the Ardal North West division.

Rhyl also enjoyed a memorable run in the Welsh Cup, reaching the semi-finals before losing 2-1 to Caernarfon Town, who went on to lift the trophy.

Those achievements helped establish the Lilywhites as a competitive force in the division, making their current position and run of results a contrast to the progress made last season.

Moore reflected on that progress in his farewell message, adding: “I leave the club in a significantly higher position than when I arrived.

“Thank you for everything, and I wish the very best of luck to everyone at the club.

“Good luck, Lilywhites.”