DIRECTOR of rugby Alan Solomons reckons Warriors’ pre-season conditioning work is bearing fruit in the second half of the season.

Solomons’ squad endured a punishing training block in sweltering conditions at Sixways last summer as well as a gruelling month-long camp in Spain.

Johan Pretorius also arrived from Super Rugby side Sharks to take on the role of head of performance as players were put through their paces in preparation for the Premiership campaign.

Despite all their efforts in the gym and on the training paddock performances in the league have remained inconsistent this term as they sit second from bottom.

But Worcester have demonstrated their never-say-attitude in recent weeks with three successive comeback victories.

They overcame a 19-3 deficit to beat Bath 21-19 in the league before last-gasp wins over Ospreys and Stade Francais in the European Challenge Cup.

They also scored four tries in the second half to down Wasps in the Premiership Cup and Solomons believes his side’s improved fitness has been key.

“We made the point that we wanted to be well conditioned this season,” Solomons said.

“We felt our functional conditioning was very important. We had a good pre-season, had a very good camp in Spain and the boys have taken it on from there.

“Johan has done a great job as conditioner and Omar Mouneimne, our defence coach, also aids and abets that with the nature of his sessions.

“I am happy with that and really pleased with the fact that in every game we have fought right until the end which is really important and winning games at the death generates confidence and belief.”

Warriors have won four of the past five games but face a trip to third-placed Harlequins on Saturday before further league games with Leicester, Newcastle and Exeter.

“I think the lads do have confidence in their fitness and have been able to continue to play right through until the end,” Solomons said.

“The fact they have had success as well also adds to that mix. It is always nice when you have a little bit of success and the players deserve it.

“They have put in a lot of hard work along with the staff and it has been great for the supporters as well.”