By Andrew Collins
May 25 2006

In a shock move, Howard Stone has been replaced as head coach by Justin Burnell, though he's been offered a fowards job!

Justin Burnell, formerly head coach of this years Grand Slam winning under 19's squad, has been announced as the new Cardiff RFC coach, replacing Howard Stone, though it's though Stone has been offered the fowrads coach role with the Premiership side.

The news comes just a week after Cardiff RFC confirmed their status in the Welsh premiership, completing a miricle turn around from bottom to tenth in the final few weeks of the season.

Stone has only been coach with the side a year, having taken over from Mike Rayer last season, but leaves in unexpected circumstances for the capital. The former Cardiff number 8 is expected to end a long affilliation with the club by turning down the new offer.

Burnell will combine the head coach role with Cardiff, with his job as Blues regional academy manager. It's thought he's someone who can improve links between the club and regional side.

More importantly, he is seen as someone who can bring some success at last to teh struggling city side. Stones efforts late last season where excellant, and a real honour to the club, but in all reality, he has a squad there much more capable then a 10th spot finish, and should be worring about trophies rather than relegation.

Burnell will take over with immediate effect, while Stone is being given time to muse further over the offer.