TOUGH-tackling Sam Betty is player who possesses a “collision X-factor”, according to Warriors head coach Carl Hogg.

Betty was a shock omission from Warriors’ original squad for Wednesday’s Championship play-off final first leg at Bristol.

But the experienced back rower was handed a late call-up - and parachuted into the starting line-up - after flanker Sam Lewis withdrew from the squad because of his father's sudden death.

The former Cornish Pirate, who was voted as Warriors' player of the season by Worcester Rugby Supporters Club, made the most of his opportunity at Ashton Gate.

Bristol-born Betty put in some strong tackles against Bristol and dotted down at the back of a driving maul for his 18th try of the campaign as Warriors edged to 29-28 victory against Andy Robinson's men.

Hogg said: “Sam’s collision is his X-factor, but he has developed on the way he stays in the system defensively and he is much better at staying in attack, so he will hold his width, remain patient and he has got some skills as well. Collision is a significant part of his game, but it is not everything.

“I think Sam has played exceptionally well this year. He adds that bite in a tackle and is a person who can turn games.”

Betty signed a new deal at Sixways earlier this year and is expected to retain his place in Worcester’s starting line-up for Wednesday’s vital play-off final second leg against Bristol (7.45pm).

Director of rugby Dean Ryan says Betty is one of the players who has grown in Warriors’ environment.

“Sam has always been physical and been committed and I think he has added more and more to his game,” said Ryan.

“He listens to what gets said and takes it on board and adapts it into his game and has become a central figure in the team.

“I see him playing at seven or six. I think there’s an area around the breakdown situation which needs work but he compensates in other areas because he’s incredibly physical.

“I think he is traditionally someone who would stay near the physical side of things and would probably shy away from putting himself in positions. But he has grown in confidence over the last two years.

“He puts himself out and holds width and is happy to play football. That’s a significant move on from the Sam Betty that we knew two years ago."

Ryan added: “When Sam came from Pirates he was just renowned for being incredibly physical and I think he’s been able to hold on to his physicality and, at the same time, show some interpretation and influence in the game in the wider channels.”