FLY HALF Ryan Lamb is set to be handed the kicking duties for the rest of the season as Worcester Warriors aim to pull themselves clear of relegation trouble.
Sixways star Chris Pennell has been Warriors’ first choice goal-kicker since December after Paul Warwick and Ignacio Mieres failed to hit the target on a consistent basis.
And the 26-year-old seemed to be settling into the role following a superb individual display against Leicester Tigers where he landed five out of six efforts at goal.
But after Pennell’s disappointing day in front of the posts on Saturday, director of rugby Dean Ryan said he will now trust Lamb, who has racked up more than 900 points in the top flight, with the job of keeping the scoreboard ticking over for Worcester.
“Ryan is a recognised goal-kicker, so that scenario is changing here,” Ryan said.
“Chris started today as he has kicked very well for us, but he was not at his best today.
“Chris will still remain as a goal-kicker for us, but I would see Ryan taking the lead while Chris grows under the pressure of being a renowned goal-kicker because doing that week in week out is something Ryan has done before.”
However, Ryan stressed the 27-year-old should not be burdened with the responsibility of steering Warriors to safety as they languish at the foot of the Aviva Premiership table.
“You can see what he brings when he comes on, but it is going to take him time to adapt to how this team can play,” he added.
“I have worked with Ryan in different scenarios to this and this team can only cope with certain things, so let’s not hang Ryan out as any sort of saviour.
“He is part of the future of what we are trying to build here and he will be central to that.”