DIRECTOR of rugby Alex Davidson says Luctonians must be wary of Stourbridge’s backlash at Mortimer Park this Saturday.

The runaway National League Two North leaders suffered a shock 21-12 home defeat against Bromsgrove last Saturday after 60 volunteers cleared snow off the pitch. It was Stourbridge’s first loss of the campaign.

Davidson believes Luctonians must repeat the ‘desire and attitude’ shown in their back-to-back home wins over Hull and Caldy.

“It might not be a good time to play Stourbridge - just a week after they lost their unbeaten record for the season,” said Davidson.

“They did very well to get the match on and it sounded like Bromsgrove wanted the win more - so Stourbridge will be hurting.

“They are still 19 points clear of second-placed Hull Ionians and are strong across the board. All their players have Championship or National League experience.

“The Garner brothers are at Stourbridge and Dale has made a handful of appearances for them. We will need to match Stourbridge for commitment and show the same desire and attitude we have in our last two ties.”

While Stourbridge’s pedigree is a concern, the snow on the Mortimer Park pitch is another worry.

“We will be watching the weather forecast this week and see if we can do something to clear the snow,” said Davidson. “We want to get the match on and we might need a band of volunteers to help clear snow from the pitch on Friday.”

Stourbridge took advantage of a succession of errors from Luctonians, running in six tries in a 43-7 win in the clubs’ maiden league meeting in October. In-form Chris Harris, who has scored two tries in his last two outings for Lucs, suffered a nasty head injury in that clash at Stourton Park.

Davidson said ex-Ludlow player Harris had successfully made the step up from Midlands One West.

“We’ve had to work hard with Chris on his mental and game-knowledge side of things, and he’s done very well,” said Davidson.

“He’s made the step up from Midlands One West and has shown a desire to learn. He’s like a sponge and is taking in everything we’re telling him.”

Davidson says Luctonians have no new injury worries heading into the match. He has been buoyed by the return of key players.

“Charlie Bennett is coming back at scrum-half and John Morris has returned after injury and is a different player than before,” said Davidson. “John’s come back with more maturity and is very able. We’re pleased that Will Burton returned to training last week.

“Brett Prior is back on the scene and Andy Williams has offered himself as a player - so I am keen to get Andy involved again.”

Davidson says the conditions could help Luctonians.

“The weather should be a great leveller - we just hope we can get the game on,” he said.

“We will need to do the hard yards and the simple things well. “We need keep in touch with Stourbridge and not concede simple points.”