By Jason Harris
August 13 2004

Darragh O'Mahony has parted company with Saracens by mutual consent. The 30-year-old wing threequarter who played international rugby for Ireland leaves after five years and 142 appearances for the Men in Black. Speaking on the club's official web site, Sarries head coach Rod Kafer said "It's always extremely difficult when we are forced to make squad decisions like this - especially with a player like Darragh who has been a great servant to the club over a long period.

"However, we always need to be looking to the future to get the balance right in the team. Unfortunately, at this point in time we've had to make this decision."

O'Mahony's departure brings the number of players to bid farewell to Saracens to 15 after Craig Yandell, Joe Ross, Johnny Marsters, Denis Cech, Ryan Peacey, Adryan Winnan, Dan Kirton, Robbie Russell, James Parks, Nathan McAvoy, Daniel Legge, Emiliano Bergamaschi, Steve Sparks and Tony Roques all left earlier in the summer.

There is much speculation surrounding the identity of the new back with Tongan wing Pila Fifita and Bradford Bulls' Tevita Vaikona both being touted as possible Saracens.

Kafer intimated in his web site statement that an announcement would be made at Friday's season ticket holder barbecue which will be held at the Bramley Road training ground from 3pm.