JOHN Brain was full of praise for his young guns who impressed despite the defeat at College Grove.

Worcester Rugby Club's director of rugby handed debuts to academy graduates Martin Freeman, Matt Mountford, Tom Warren and James Percival while youngsters Iyran Clunis, Neil Mason and Matt Evans also impressed.

"Those boys are not used to rugby at that level," he said. "It took them a little bit of time to get acclimatised but they got better as the game went on and there are a lot of individuals who, after the 80 minutes, have emerged with some credit.

"We as coaches have got a lot out of that despite the defeat because you can't expect too much of a side which has been thrown together. I think they improved as the game went on, there's no doubt about it.

"At the end of the game, all of those players can be happy with the way they've performed because it's not easy when there are so many changes.

"The guys stuck at it and a lot of positive things came out of the match. They can hold their heads up high.

"Matt Evans and Neil Mason did well and they are competing very hard now for the back row places. Matt is strong, quick and carries the ball well but Neil has posed a few selection issues with the way he played at number seven.

"Those two young back row guys have a lot to offer."