Sir John Kirwan defiant as Blues lose again

The Blues have been left to again emphasise their support of coach Sir John Kirwan.

The franchise has hit rock-bottom with a fourth-straight defeat to start the season, giving up a seven point lead to lose 13-10 to the Lions in Albany.

Blues CEO Michael Redman says their is no division in the playing group or management about Kirwan's position.

"I've heard nothing from the leadership group that would question their belief or support for him."

"As you'd expect, the entire organisation supports John and wants him to succeed."

Hooker Keven Mealamu is struggling to come to terms with their fourth-straight loss.

"We let that slip and it's quite disappointing.

"We had some real good opportunities there and we just took the foot off the throat."

But under-pressure Kirwan is quashing any suggestions his job is on the line.

"I intend to be here a long time. I think we're in a bit of a slump at the moment but we'll turn it round.

"I'm very confident in what I'm doing."

He says he'll be at the franchise for a long time, and he believes in the squad and the structures they're putting together.

Kirwan is in his final year of his contract at the Blues.