That was my understanding of the Mal coaching issue as well. It would not have made a lick of difference if he took over the whistle and clip board anyway. We were shot for confidence by then. I doubt very much that Mal wasn't giving any input and advice behind the scenes (as most inner circle people do at clubs, that's why they're there) but we...as a unit were too far gone.
Although I'm happy for Max, I know it is going to piss me off for years to come that we made that stupid move!