IT was a case of third time lucky for Steven Vile as he finally became a Worcester Rugby Club player.

The 31-year-old New Zealander has signed on at Sixways after two near misses in the past three seasons. The fly-half almost joined Worcester two seasons ago after interest from former coach Les Cusworth and was on the verge of a move last year until Bristol decided to hang on to him.

Vile says he is delighted to eventually joined up for Worcester's promotion bid.

"It is definitely a case of third time lucky," he said. "I like Worcester, they have a great set-up and I'm just pleased to have finally made the move.

"I was here two seasons ago but that move fell through and I eventually went to Bristol.

"Last season I had actually been released by Bob Dwyer and looked certain to join, but I had a call from Bristol's chief executive Nick de Scossa telling me he could not release me because he'd actually been released himself!

"I have initially been brought in as cover for Craig Chalmers but if everything goes OK then there is an opportunity to extend the deal as the season goes on.

"I won promotion with West Hartlepool to the First Division and it would obviously be great to do the same with Worcester."