DIRECTOR of rugby Gary Gold admits Worcester Warriors’ fragile defence has plunged them into the scrap for Aviva Premiership survival.

And the former South Africa assistant coach doesn’t think Warriors “are a bad enough team” to be hovering perilously close to the relegation trapdoor.

With just three wins this term, Warriors are second-from-bottom and just two points above Bristol who pitch up at Sixways tomorrow.

Gold arrived at Warriors last month and has had time to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the squad at his disposal.

Warriors have conceded 499 points from 16 matches – five more than Bristol – and have the worst defensive record in the top tier.

“I don’t think the players are a bad enough team to be 11th out of 12 but we are 11th,” said Gold.

“There must be reasons for this.

“For a start, defensively we have not been good enough and we realise that and we acknowledge it.

“Maybe it’s easier for me to acknowledge it but that’s what the reality is.

“I certainly went to Northampton last weekend not thinking I was with an 11th placed club going to play a team like Northampton with their pedigree.”

He has identified former Ireland and Munster legend Donncha O’Callaghan as his captain and counts South African duo Wynand Olivier and Francois Hougaard among two of the leaders.

“The strong leaders in Donncha, Wynand, Dewald (Potgieter), Francois Hougaard, Chris Pennell and Millsy (Ryan Mills) through the spine of the team will be critical in a game like this (Bristol),” said Gold.

“They will be a calming influence and I am sure they will play a big role.”

Wing Bryce Heem will also be considered as part of the senior group.

The Auckland-born back has been very impressed with the impact of young players such as Josh Adams and Perry Humphreys.

“The young boys have done well so far,” said Heem.

“A few of them have been chucked in at the deep end this season and coped really well and I am expecting big things from them.

“They have definitely proved their worth and held their own."

Heem added: “Gary (Gold) demands perfection from us and has quite a strong presence among the guys and the guys really respect him.

“I guess that’s all part of what being a coach is. If you have the players’ respect it can go a long way.”