WARRIORS chief Alan Solomons has demanded consistency from his side next season as they prepare to bring the curtain down on the current campaign with a final day trip to Franklin’s Gardens to face Northampton Saints.
The Sixways side secured their place among English rugby’s elite next season with a barnstorming 44-13 win over Harlequins at the weekend but Solomons is already looking beyond’s Saturday’s (4pm) finale.
The South African took the reins in the new year after the departure of former chief Gary Gold and said his men had played some terrific rugby at times but said more consistent performances were on the menu for next season.
“We’ve taken some big scalps such as Exeter Chiefs, Leicester Tigers and Newcastle Falcons. There is that ability there but it’s about consistency of performance,” he said.
Solomons said the victory over Harlequins capped a ‘fantastic’ day which saw Worcester say goodbye to Donncha O’Callaghan and celebrate homegrown Chris Pennell’s 200th appearance for the club.
“The guys performed well and we were the masters of our own destiny. Donncha O’Callaghan deserved to finish like that and it was great for Chris Pennell on his 200th appearance.
“Everyone wanted to perform for them. We delivered a good performance and it was a great day for all involved.”
Saints go into the clash on the back of a good win at Leicester and a valiant display in the 36-29 reverse to Wasps at the weekend.
“It’ll be a tough game as they’re a good side and we’ll have to be at our best. We’re looking forward to the challenge. We have to perform. If we don’t perform we won’t get a result,” added Solomons.
Bryce Heem will be assessed closer to kick-off after a blow to the throat in the win over Quins, Dorian Jones is currently being assessed after sustaining a head injury at the weekend and Will Spencer will be absent due to a toe injury.
Solomons confirmed Warriors players will enjoy a five-week break at the end of the season and said those involved in summer internationals will enjoy an extra break.
“I hope to see some in the England squad along with Ben Te’o. The likes of Will Spencer, Nick Schonert and Jack Singleton have been fantastic this season,” he said.
Singleton is just 21 and he’s a very good player at the set-piece and around the park. He has a good rugby brain and shows leadership skills.
“Sharky (Schonert) has had a terrific season. His scrummaging has been excellent and he’s also been great around the park.
“If they do go to South Africa it’ll be a good test as the Springboks will be up for it.”
