Raiders chief executive Don Furner defends Ricky Stuart despite 'inexcusable' start to the season
Raiders chief executive Don Furner has defended under pressure coach Ricky Stuart, instead placing the blame for five straight losses on the players.
Nine NRL insider Michael Chammas spoke to Furner on Sunday and reported he was "quite scathing" of the team's performance in recent weeks.
"He said, 'it was dreadful, that players should be embarrassed with themselves' because he was embarrassed to watch the game," Chammas said in reference to Saturday's golden point loss to the Warriors.
READ MORE: Storm star angers NRL with 'unprofessional' comment
READ MORE: Melbourne beast drafted by NFL team
READ MORE: Cornes' hilarious response to Magpies young gun
Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart. Mark Kolbe/Getty Images
Chammas said he directly asked Furner about Stuart's coaching future.
He reportedly replied: "Ricky's not the one out there making dumb decisions and throwing stupid passes. He said the losses the last two weeks were 'inexcusable'."
Chammas also said Canberra's underperforming players were on notice.
"Don't be surprised if there's a mass cleanout at the Raiders over the summer if these results continue to go against them," he said.
