NEIL Mitchell says his Stourbridge squad is becoming more cohesive with every game.

Stour bounced back from the home defeat to Caldy by securing a bonus point success at Harrogate last Saturday.

Mitchell’s men scored four early tries in the 24-12 victory to quickly get back on track.

The director of rugby was pleased with the way his side reacted to the previous weekend’s defeat.

He said: “It was a very proactive performance from us.

“We were slow in the turnover areas against Caldy but improved that last Saturday.

"We won a lot of 50/50 balls and were then able to get our patterns of play going and cause real problems.

“The only downside was that we didn’t put the game well out of reach in the second half.

"I think the players may have been a little guilty of feeling like the job was done and slipping into a comfort zone.

“We are still a work in progress but it is clear we are becoming a more cohesive unit with every game.

“Coach John Higgins has been busy working closely with the players and they are starting to benefit from that now.”

Stourbridge will now welcome Preston Grasshoppers to Stourton Park this Saturday (3pm).

Mitchell added: “Preston have had a decent start to the season but we are looking for another bonus-point win.

“It is important we get the win as soon as we can and then go on and secure the bonus point. Those extras are very important and that will be our aim on Saturday.”

Powerful lock Chris Roddy is in line to make his first start after overcoming a knee injury.

He could come in for fellow second row Liam Mather, who may be rested to aid his recovery from an Achilles tendon problem.