Powerhouse centre Dale Rasmussen admits the RFU Championship is certainly now even harder than he can remember – but is relishing every minute of life under a new Sixways regime as he prepares to hit another memorable milestone for Worcester Warriors.
Former Samoa international Rasmussen – who has made nine appearances for his country – joined Worcester in 2004 from then National Division One outfit Exeter Chiefs so has plenty of experience of life in the second tier.
The ultra consistent 33-year-old, famed for his big tackling by fans, epitomises the club values with his attitude and work ethic and has been impressed by the changes made under Head Coach Richard Hill this season.
The Auckland-born centre remains a key member of the Sixways backline and his importance will be underlined this Saturday against Doncaster Knights (kick-off 3pm) as he prepares for his 150th game in a Worcester jersey.
However, Rasmussen admits any celebrations will be put on hold as earning the respect of another Championship opponent in a competitive league will be his top priority.
“The Championship is certainly a lot harder than I remembered it,” said Rasmussen. “But it is a good feeling to feel fresh with the rotation system and not carrying niggles into games as we have done in the past.
“There is a new mentality and philosophy under Richard Hill, new players as well so it is fresh and exciting. We are also managing to play and get our hands on the ball and, ultimately, that is why you play rugby.
“In a lot of games in this league you firstly have to earn the respect of the opposition. They will have no fear playing us so you have got to match them physically and then better them.
“Esher was a good performance but we now look to Doncaster Knights and draw a line under what happened last weekend.
“They will come out firing but we don’t change our style, we firstly look to earn that respect and then look to play the rugby we know we can produce.”
Tickets for the Warriors clash with Doncaster Knight remain on sale. Call the Warriors Box Office on 01905 454183 or click www.warriors.co.uk for more information. Special drinks promotions will run on the day and a pre-match game between Bromsgrove School and Ellesmere School will take place on the stadium pitch from 12.15pm.