JOHN Brain admitted that the James Brown show is gathering pace.

Worcester's director of rugby was delighted with the professional display by all in the 59-0 defeat of Harrogate. However, he paid tribute to the fly half after an outstanding show at Sixways.

"His distribution skills are very, very good," said Brain. "However, he also managed and ran the game very well as well. He can take a lot of positives from the performance because it was an all-round effort.

"For a man of his size, he is putting his body on the line in defence which is very pleasing to see. James is well aware that a lot of teams attack through that channel so it's very important to make our tackles there.

"James did a very good job against Harrogate and it's an interesting battle between him and Tommy Hayes."

Brain was impressed, though, with Worcester's work ethic in a game which could have been a difficult to motivate his players. In front of a paltry 984 crowd and against lower ranked opposition, the Warriors went out and did the business nevertheless.

"The players approached the game in exactly the right manner," added Brain. "Sometimes it can be difficult to motivate yourselves for games like that but there was never a hint of that.

"We scored nine tries and a number of players got game time which was really useful for them and for the coaches. We were also determined not to let them score and we showed a lot of pride and commitment to shut out the opposition for the second week running.

"It was very important for us to perform and build on the first half display last weekend against London Welsh. We've done that and it's been a very good afternoon for Worcester."