Scrum half Matt Powell has called on the loyal Sixways supporters to crank up the volume on Sunday for derby day – and vowed the players at Worcester Warriors will continue to pull together to change current fortunes.
Warriors will welcome a record crowd to Sixways Stadium on Sunday as they prepare for a crunch derby clash with local rivals Gloucester (kick-off 3pm).
Ahead of the game Powell has revealed how the frustrated players are desperate to turn around recent results and build towards a bright future.
“As players we are extremely frustrated,” said Powell. “Newcastle’s recent form is an example that winning can become habit and many of us have experienced this. They haven’t changed their players or their style but they have built some momentum and importantly gained confidence.
“We are a very tight group of players who have always pulled together in these difficult situations. These next few weeks will be no different and everyone is trying desperately to turn our performances around.
“We are lucky enough to have a quality management team but unfortunately we have let them down this season. We all share Mike Ruddock’s ambition to play an exciting brand of rugby.
“We are all desperate to play on Sunday, to put last week’s disappointment behind us and to fight for our lives in a good old fashioned local derby. We need you behind us. From all the players; thank you for your continued loyal support.”
Meanwhile, Director of Rugby Ruddock has also sent out a message to the fans on the eve of the biggest game of the season.
“I would like it known that I accept full responsibility for our underachievement and whilst I appreciate the honesty of the players, and in this case Matt Powell in particular, the buck stops with me,” he said.
“I would like to apologise to the fans for not delivering the success we all crave. But I can assure everyone that I will try everything I can to improve our fortunes.
“I would like to thank the fantastic Warrior fans for their continued support of the team.”
Tickets are selling fast for Warriors versus Gloucester this Sunday at Sixways Stadium! Call 01905 454183 or visit the online Warriors Box Office NOW on www.warriors.co.uk to be part of the Guinness Premiership action!