Warriors’ new captain Dean Schofield is looking forward to the new Aviva Premiership season getting underway on Saturday and is focused on helping his side get an opening day victory for the second consecutive year.
Schofield joined Warriors this summer from French side RC Toulon and was handed the captain’s armband by Head Coach Richard Hill.
With three victories over strong opposition during pre-season, Schofield admits he is looking forward to finally playing his first Aviva Premiership match for his new club.
He said: “We’ve had ten or eleven weeks of solid training during pre-season and all the players in the squad have worked ridiculously hard. We’ve had some good results but it’s all been building to this opening game against Bath Rugby.”
Bath remained unbeaten during pre-season after recording victories over London Welsh, Ospreys and Cardiff Blues and both sides come into the fixture in good form.
“Bath have impressed a lot of people in pre-season and so have we so it will be a good match. We will both want to keep the momentum going on Saturday and get a positive result,” added Schofield.
“We need to concentrate on the things we do well and make sure we get them right on the day.”
According to Schofield, it’s crucial for Warriors to get off to a good start if they are going to have a good season in the Aviva Premiership.
He stated: “September is a big month for us as we also have a home derby against Gloucester, and we need to pick up points early.”
The 33-year-old is as motivated as he has ever been ahead of his Warriors debut and admits he still gets nervous before he plays rugby.
He added: “All through pre-season, the Bath match has been in the back of my mind. You try to relax and switch off but the week leading up to the match is always exciting.
“I still get nervous. If you’re not getting nervous about playing rugby, then you shouldn’t be playing.
“Once the whistle blows you’re fine but you’re always a little anxious before kick-off. It’s going to be a great occasion for everyone involved on Saturday and I can’t wait to get started.”
*Dean Schofield talks to the Warriors matchday programme on Saturday about his hopes for the season. Don’t forget to buy your copy on Saturday from Sixways Stores, club bars and programme-sellers situated around the stadium.
“Bath have impressed a lot of people in pre-season and so have we so it will be a good match. We will both want to keep the momentum going on Saturday and get a positive result."