Worcester Warriors face a trip to Petrarca Rugby in the opening game of the European Challenge Cup this season after the opening four rounds were today confirmed.
Warriors, runners-up to Bath Rugby last year, travel to Italy and the Stadio Plebiscito on Saturday, October 11 (kick-off 3pm local time) for the opening game in Pool 3.
Mike Ruddock’s men jet off again the following weekend to face Bucuresti Oaks on Sunday, October 19 (kick-off 4.30pm local time).
The second clash in Pool 3 was originally scheduled to take place at Sixways Stadium with the return fixture in January. However, following consultation with Bucuresti Oaks and ERC, the two clubs have now opted to switch fixtures with Warriors travelling to the Stadium Arcul de Triumf in Romania in October to avoid any potential problems with the venue, pitch and adverse weather.
Warriors make it three European trips in a row when they travel to Stade Pierre Rajon to tackle Bourgoin on Friday, December 5 (kick-off 8.30pm local time).
The following weekend the Warriors entertain the French side at Sixways Stadium on Saturday, December 13 (kick-off 3pm).
Warriors will face Bucuresti Oaks and Petrarca Rugby in January at Sixways Stadium with rounds five and six to be confirmed at a later date.
Saturday, October 12 Petrarca Rugby vs Worcester Warriors kick-off 3pm
Sunday, October 19 Bucuresti Oaks vs Worcester Warriors kick-off 4.30pm
Friday, December 5 Bourgoin vs Worcester Warriors kick-off 8.30pm
Saturday, December 13 Worcester Warriors vs Bourgoin kick-off 3pm
January 16/17/18 Worcester Warriors vs Bucuresti Oaks kick-off TBC
January 23/24/25 Worcester Warriors vs Petrarca Rugby kick-off TBC