Defence is key for Warriors

The Worcester Warriors have put their trust in defence coach Phil Larder, who has signed a new contract to stay at Sixways.

Former England and British & Irish Lions coach re-joined the backroom staff at Sixways this season and has helped develop one of the tightest defences in the top-flight.

Highly respected coach Larder, part of Clive Woodward's backroom staff when England won the Rugby World Cup in 2003, enjoyed a previous spell at Warriors during the 2006/2007 Premiership season.

Head coach Richard Hill praised Larder's contribution this campaign and said: "I have been absolutely delighted by the strides we have made under Phil's guidance and the work he has done. He has been a huge contributing factor to being where we are in the league at the current time.

"Phil had immediate respect within the squad. He is renowned in the UK as one of the best defence coaches around.

"He has enjoyed coming back into the game and enjoyed working with the squad. He couldn't have asked for anymore from the players and they have worked hard for him.

"Phil is working as hard as ever to make us better and more consistent. His hunger for the game is as strong as ever and he demands the highest standards and work ethic from the squad to make them even better."