WORCESTER Warriors will be out to “numb” Exeter Chiefs’ pack when they arrive at Sixways on Friday night (7.45pm), insists flanker Matt Cox.

Exeter’s use of the driving maul as an attacking weapon and effectiveness in the set piece has been key to their success in the Aviva Premiership.

Last Sunday Warriors found life tough in the scrum when tighthead prop Nick Schonert was stretchered off and their lineout faltered in the latter stages of their 24-10 defeat to Wasps.

But Cox is confident Worcester will be front up against the defending champions and stop them from controlling the tempo.

“Exeter are very forward dominant and they have got a big pack, so that’s been a big focus of ours,” Cox said.

“Their drives and pick and goes are good so we have got to try to numb their forward pack.

“They are a good outfit, but we know what we need to do, so it is about making our game plan work.

“Exeter can control tempo of the game pretty well with their forward pack.

“Whether it comes to speeding up their lineout, a maul or drive, it is a very good form of offence for them.

“They are very good at it, but I think we can match their physicality and control the game on our terms.”

Cox has also backed tighthead prop Biyi Alo to step up to the mark after replacing the injured Schonert.

“Biyi knows his stuff and is a big boy,” Cox added.

“He’s has been under (forwards coach) Mefin Davies’ wing at the moment, so I would rather be playing with him than against him.

“I am happy he is on our team and I am sure he will do a good job for us.”