Worcester v Rotherham Titans: Colour-blind Titans in need of cutting edge

As a fan of the NFL, the Titans chief refers to the area closest to the goal-line as the ‘red zone’.

But in rugby union circles, that is known as the ‘green zone’.

“I used to call it the red zone but they shot me down,” said Blackett.

“The players won that argument because now we have to refer to it as the green zone.”

However it is known, the 15 or so yards towards the tryline was an area in which Rotherham were found wanting in their draw with Jersey at Clifton Lane last Saturday.

If they are to take anything from a daunting trip to red-hot leaders Worcester Warriors today in front of the live Sky Sports cameras, Blackett’s boys have to be more clinical.

“We have got to be more clear in our roles,” added Blackett.

“As a team we have to know what we need to do in that area. It’s something we’ve looked at in-depth this week.”

Discipline will also be key for Rotherham today. Two weeks ago Doncaster stymied a fluent Worcester for 60 minutes before conceding three late tries when they had players in the sin-bin.

But even when they are playing teams with 15 men, Worcester are capable of piling on the points; 58 against Nottingham last week and 62 against Cornish Pirates.

“They’re a real force,” admitted Blackett, “probably the form team in the division right now.

“Three of our top players left us last year to join Worcester and aren’t even in the team today, that’s how strong they are.

“They’re a Premiership team in all but status.

“But if our players want to one day play in the Premiership, then these are the challenges they need to rise to.”