BROMSGROVE Rugby Club are bidding to bounce straight back this term following last season's relegation from National 3 South West.

Head coach Dan Protherough was always aware the extensive travelling involved last season would take its toll, so the prospect of playing in Midlands West One has given his players a real shot in the arm.

Protherough has managed to keep most of his players from last season.

But he has boosted the squad considerably by bringing in former Worcester Warrior Jake Abbot as his player-coach.

Abbot made over 70 appearences for the Warriors but has been out of the game for the past couple of years.

The open side flanker has been keen return and should prove a massive presence in Bromsgrove's pack along with another new recruit, flanker James Martin, who has switched from Old Halesonians and is the current skipper of Hereford and Worcester.

Bromsgrove can also welcome back centre Ed Spalding who spent last season on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury.

However there will be one significant absence with full back and goal kicker Jon Critchlow retiring.

Protherough said: "There's a real buzz about the club and everyone can't wait for the season to start.

"We will be expected to do well and the players must adopt a winning mentality. We cannot afford to let games slip.

"It wasn't always easy last season, especially once the reality of the travelling involved kicked in.

"The good thing is that the players have stuck together and now we have to start adopting a winning habit."

Busy Bromsgrove have a friendly fixture at South West East side Stratford this Friday night and then entertain Midlands Premier side Lichfield the following Thursday.

Bromsgrove commence their league campaign on September 2 when they entertain Worcester Wanderers which doubles up as a North Midlands Cup match as well.