BIRMINGHAM & Solihull's Keith Jervis has stoked up the pressure on Worcester Rugby Club stating -- "they should be shot if they don't get promoted."

The director of rugby at Sharmans Cross Road has put Worcester ahead of everyone in the race for the National One title before their derby clash at Sixways tomorrow (3pm).

Jervis brings his side to Worcester hoping to pull off a shock win but cites the signing of star players such as Ben Clarke and Craig Chalmers as the 'massive difference' between the two clubs.

"They have 22 players who are fitter, stronger and better than everyone else in the league. They didn't do it last year and many were shot because of it!

"Ben Clarke is someone I've admired for many years now and if he cannot make a difference to them, no-one can. Worcester are out on their own as favourites this season simply because of the calibre of players they have.

"There is a big difference to the Worcester side of last season and this year. We have won promotion with a very low budget while Worcester have the biggest budget in the league.

"I don't think Rotherham will do it because I think a relegated side always have an air of disappointment about them. They also conceded 22 points at Wakefield on Saturday."

Birmingham, who opened their National One season with a home defeat by Coventry last week, will include former Worcester favourite Nick Baxter in their side.

Jervis is hoping Baxter's bubbly personality will influence the rest of his Birmingham squad in the season ahead.

"Nick is a very elusive runner and brings a lot of confidence to the team. I am hoping the rest of the players can feed off him."