FEW people have made a bigger impact during Worcester City's recent revival than Steve Lutz.

The 20-year-old has been a revelation up front in recent weeks, and managed to score in four successive games.

His fine form has rubbed off on his team-mates as City have improved their chances of avoiding relegation from the Dr Martens League Premier Division with six wins in their last eight matches.

The former Birmingham City trainee has had two spells at St George's Lane. He struggled to make an impact the first time, but was brought back by Graham Allner from Pershore Town last season and established a regular spot in midfield.

He was rewarded with a two-year contract in the summer, but had struggled to even make the bench during City's disastrous start to the season, although he was a regular scorer in City's Central Conference side.

But a bold tactical ploy utilised by new boss John Barton in the FA Umbro Trophy tie at Hayes in November brought Lutz back into the picture.

Barton felt that Lutz's pace, allied to that of Mark Owen, could be the key to getting behind Hayes' three-man defence.

The ploy worked a treat as City pulled off a shock 2-0 win, and Lutz has stayed in ever since, his hard work and pace prov-iding a catalyst for City's improved form.

Lutz said: "I had previously played up front with Birmingham and a few times with the reserves, so it was not a strange role for me.

"I am working hard and Mark is as well, and if we both keep working we will get our rewards."

Lutz is convinced City will continue their fine run and escape from the threat of the drop. "Team spirit has been good all season. We just have to keep motivation going.

"We are showing a lot of character in games. If we keep that up against teams in this league we will get results."