KEY POINTS:
Former Kiwis coach Frank Endacott believes the 17 who donned the black and white jersey in the record 44-0 mauling at the hands of Great Britain last week had let down a lot of old Kiwis.
But he still feels the NZRL should stick by beleaguered coach Gary Kemble.
Endacott, who together with Graham Lowe and convenor of selectors Howie Tamati appointed Kemble, strongly believes they should stick with the present set-up of Kemble, Phil Prescott and James Leuluai through to the World Cup.
"I would be disappointed and upset if they got rid of Gary," Endacott said. "The panel were certain we appointed the right coaches and we still think that. I hope common sense prevails and he's given more time to grow up with this team.
"The easiest thing in the world is to sack someone when things are going wrong," the one-time Warriors and Kiwis coach continued.
"I know Gary is copping a lot of flak but the results have nothing to do with his coaching. He has inherited a team that has had its heart ripped out [through retirements] and we have to accept that we are going to have a few test defeats to gain long-term success."
However, Endacott refused to give the current squad as much leeway as the coach, saying they appeared to lack heart.
"A lot of players don't seem to have the pride in the jersey, which is worrying, because the minute they put it on they should be ready to die for the cause.
"A lot of old Kiwis would have been cringing watching them play last weekend."
