OXFORD RL have announced Tim Rumford as their new head coach to replace Tony Benson.

Rumford, who was previously in charge of Castleford Tigers’ academy, will also remain as the Yorkshire club’s foundation manager.

A former Gateshead Thunder assistant coach and player with York and Hunslet, Rumford is relishing taking over from Benson, who quit last month.

He said: “Oxford are a development club which have made a solid start and the board have established a club with a feelgood factor about it.

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“I’m honoured to have been given this opportunity and I’m looking forward to starting work with the squad.”

Oxford RL managing director Adrian Smith said: “In Tim I believe we have a head coach who has the energy, desire and confidence to take up the opportunity that Oxford RL offers.

“He’s proved his ability to develop players as individuals as well as part of a team and that’s exactly what I want Tim to bring to our club.”

Rumford has moved quickly to secure the signing of former Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone Rovers half back Danny Allen.

Allen said: “I’m excited about working with Tim and joining Oxford. I’ve heard good things about the club and I wanted a new challenge.”

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