TIGHTHEAD prop Simon Kerrod has credited Worcester Warriors forwards coach Mefin Davies for helping him to learn the “dark arts” of scrummaging in the Aviva Premiership.

The South African was brought to Sixways to add strength to Warriors’ set-piece with former boss Gary Gold likening his skills to top scrummager Nick Schonert.

But having made the step up from the Championship this season Kerrod says it has taken time to adjust.

And the 25-year-old admits ex-Wales hooker Davies has been key to fine tuning his game to be able to front up against top quality opposition.

“Mef has been unbelievable,” Kerrod said.

“I need to give him credit as I have learnt so much from him.

“It’s just been technical things that you won’t even notice yourself and he has made those little tweaks here and there.

“He knows all the dark arts so it’s very good to have someone like that here to teach us.”

Johannesburg-born Kerrod began his career with the Blue Bulls and went on to represent the Sharks at both under 19 and under 21 levels.

He moved to Jersey in the summer of 2016 and helped to steer the Islanders to their highest ever finish in fifth position.

“In the Championship it is very competitive at scrum-time as well,” Kerrod said.

“But in there you could have a massive guy who weighs 135kgs whereas in the Premiership players are a lot more technically sound.

“If you are off on one scrum you are going to get found out.

“But Mef tells us do this, this and this which has helped to fine tune my game to where it needs to be.”

After recovering from a groin injury sustained in pre-season, Kerrod has started to find his feet, making eight appearances.

He made his Premiership bow at Saracens last month before coming off the bench in the defeat to Bath a week later.

Kerrod also made only his second start for Worcester in their 24-24 draw with Connacht in the European Challenge Cup last Saturday.

But he insists he cannot afford to take a step back as he looks to solidify his place in the team with Schonert (ankle) out injured.

“While you can probably get used to playing in the Championship the Premiership is so much more competitive because of all the internationals,” Kerrod said.

“Every weekend it’s flat out, so it’s not possible to feel comfortable.

“They are really well trained because there is a massive focus on the set-piece here, so every week you are going to be up against someone that’s very tough.

“But it is a good test.”

Kerrod is set to keep hold of the number three shirt for Worcester’s trip to Brive in their final Pool Five game.

“It has been up and down for me this season,” Kerrod said.

“Injuries set you back but you need to come back stronger.

“It’s always going to be bumpy getting back to form, but I feel that I am on the right track.

“I want to carry on performing.

“I have got to put my hand up when I get an opportunity. Hopefully I can kick on this weekend and keep going in the Premiership.”