MR consistent Dave Fryday is Worcester Rugby Club's unsung hero according to coach Adrian Skeggs.

The influential number eight, who has been one of the National One leaders' most steady performers this season, still does not receive the plaudits he deserves.

After coming off the pitch at Exeter, battered and bruised last weekend, the 29-year-old had clocked up yet another fine performance which led to victory.

The Australian, who celebrated his birthday on Thursday, is one of the quieter players at the club but Skeggs believes his consistency has spoken louder than words this season.

He said: "I didn't realise there were quiet Austra-lians until I met Dave but he has been fantastic for us this season. To me, he is a number six who is playing eight.

"He is so flexible, he's smart, he thinks about the game and when it gets tough, he gets tougher.

"Against Saracens in the cup game his tackle count was the highest of the forwards - he loves it when it gets tough. He really works hard to keep things together. I think Dave is a rock in regards to the organisation of the side."

Fryday has missed just two games since coming into the side against Leeds in September and Skeggs admits, his influence in the side has grown and grown.

"When he is not in the side now, we lack any consistency in our 80 minutes. He has been playing well and is probably our most consistent player. He is also very professional and looks after himself so, as a coach, you really cannot ask any more of a player.

"The good thing is that I think he will only get better at Worcester."

He added: "He gets frustrated with the conditions over here because he is used to playing with the ball in his hands but he's getting used to it and adapting well.

"It's not easy being over here sometimes - he doesn't like the muddy, cold conditions but he just gets on with it. That's the type of guy he is."