WORCESTER Rugby Club's coaches have hailed Gavin Pfister's professionalism after the South African's improvement at openside flanker.

Pfister has grown as the season has gone on and is now looking to secure his place in the side as the countdown to Rotherham ticks on.

Worcester play their title rivals on April 12 at Sixways and with Richard Nias now injured, the way looks clear for Pfister to continue impressing the coaching set up.

"Gavin is very professional," said coach Andy Keast. "He has been a very good signing for the club this season because he wants to improve. He looks closely at his own game and performances and is keen on improving different aspects.

"Obviously now we have Moseley away and Wakefield away before the Rotherham game and that is the one everyone wants to play in. It's been a very competitive area of the team this season because Richard Nias has also done well there this season. Coaches want that competition and I think that can only bring the best out of Gavin and Richard. Richard's injured at the moment but he'll be keen to come back as soon as possible."

Keast had some harsh words for his side following their defensive display against Plymouth on Saturday but he has been pleased with the reaction. He is now hoping the team can take that reaction into tomorrow's National One clash at Moseley (3pm).

"They've reacted well in training," he said. "There is a lot of honesty throughout the squad and they know they didn't react well enough during the Plymouth match. They are very keen to make amends for that at Moseley.

"I think when six players come into a team that have been out injured, there is some excuse for being off the pace a little. But the coaches, and more importantly, the players are not hiding behind that excuse. We need to improve in that area tomorrow."