Adam Black proved tries really are like London buses – nothing for ages and then two come along all at once – as he inspired Worcester Warriors to victory over Moseley Rugby in the festive RFU Championship local derby at Sixways.
Black had not scored in his first 36 games for Warriors but dived over the line twice in just 20 minutes to give Worcester the dream start as they claimed a bonus point 45-7 victory.
However, the front row insisted his part in the action was all down to his colleagues as Warriors mastered the difficult wet playing conditions on home soil as fog also lingered throughout the match.
“It’s lovely to score, I would do it every week, but it was two really good team tries really,” he said.
“The first one was all down to Ollie Frost on his full debut as he gave me a little pass to go over and the second was a driving lineout that the boys worked hard on all day. I am pleased I am got them but it was all down to the team.
“It was difficult out there and it has not been an ideal build up to this game, but luckily we have got the Indoor Centre and the boys were gagging to get out there and play.
“We knew what the weather was going to be like, what was important was that we performed and got the win.
“We started off by keeping it tight and we got rewards for that. We maybe went off the focus a little bit when we went wide and a few balls were going to ground for both sides. But we bought it back together and got some tries towards the end so we are pleased.”
Black also hailed the supporters at Sixways who came in on Monday – while the players were doing final preparations – to help clear the pitch and stadium complex.
He added: “We are pleased with the result and we owe a great deal to the fans. It was fantastic to see so many of them in on Monday while we were doing our team run, all mucking in and helping clear the snow and paths.
“Without them this game would not have taken place so the credit goes to them. We are just pleased we could get the result they wanted to repay them for all the hard work.”
Head Coach Richard Hill also paid tribute to Black as he broke his Sixways try duck – but admitted the rest of the team would not hear the end of the front row’s heroics.
“I am sure Black will be vocal about his tries,” joked Hill. “His mate Foro (Chris Fortey) was trying to get over at the end so he is not too happy at the moment. The two of them together are interesting characters.
“Adam Black and Chris Fortey plus Oliver Tomaszczyk have formed a little partnership off the field and enjoy playing together as well. There is really good spirit there.”