FULL-BLOODED tackles and dogged defensive work have been what back row battler Sam Betty has become renowned for during his career.
But according to director of rugby Dean Ryan the 27-year-old was a changed man this season as he believed his fearsome forward had a much cooler head on his shoulders.
Sunday’s match against Newcastle Falcons marked Betty’s 20th appearance for Warriors this season which is only bettered by Sixways star Chris Pennell with 21.
And Ryan said the flanker’s consistent selection in his side had been down to how much he had developed.
“I think if you look at Sam as a player in August and Sam as a player now there is a massive change,” Ryan said.
“We all know that Sam can be incredibly physical, but to adapt that around intellect and being patient is something which is in conflict with that physicality.
“But he is learning to be a lot more patient. He is now able to sit in systems and wait for his opportunity rather than just throwing himself into something. It has been a massive learning curve for him.
“But he has adapted to it and he has become a much better team player because of that.”
Betty had played largely in the number six jersey since joining from Cornish Pirates in 2011, but he has been forced to switch sides this season after Jake Abbott was ruled out for the rest of the campaign with a knee injury.
But the Warriors boss believed Betty was maturing into a top open-side flanker as he continues to hold down his place in the team.
“Sam is doing a pretty good job as a seven,” Ryan added. “To play Premiership at six, he probably needs to put on a couple more stone, but he is capable of playing across the back row.
“He has got the skill set and he is physical enough, but we are really pleased with how he is performing at seven at the moment.”