Worcester travel to London to do battle with the Exiles

These are dark days at Sixways as Worcester Warriors find themselves in dire financial crisis as they begin their season against the Exiles at the Gtech Community Stadium. Reports indicate that the latter are expected to enjoy a good season ahead after promising signs in 2021-22. 

As is the case this year, the sides met in last season in Round 1 – a contest won by Worcester at Sixways: 

However, the tables turned quite dramatically in the return fixture (Round 19), where the Exiles swarmed on their home turf: 

The Exiles finished in 8th spot at the conclusion of last season while Worcester were good enough for 11th. 

“The players, staff and coaches are all looking forward to welcoming Worcester to the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday,” said London Irish Director of Rugby, Declan Kidney. 

“It’s been a tough period for them, and we are very glad that they are able to take to the field tomorrow. Their supporters will be made most welcome from everyone here at the Club. 

“We know that Steve Diamond and his players will be extra motivated for this match, and we have to match that in our performance. It has all the makings of a great contest.” 

Match facts: 

London Irish 

• London Irish beat 529 defenders during the 2021/22 Premiership season – the most of any side in the league.
• Making 2,286 metres in contact throughout the season, London Irish were the most powerful carrying team last season.
• Of any player who made more than seven appearances in the league, Ben White averaged the most clean breaks per 80 minutes in the league last season (2.06).

Worcester Warriors 

• Worcester finished the season with the lowest rate of successful goal kicks (67.8%).
• Worcester’s Graham Kitchener made more lineout steals than any other player last season (ten).
• British and Irish Lion Duhan van der Merwe beat more defenders per 80 minutes than any other player who made more than seven appearances last season (5.6).

Historical 

• Worcester have faced London Irish in the first round of their last two Premiership campaigns, defeating the Exiles 36-24 to commence their 2021/22 campaign.
• Across the 33 contests between these sides, London Irish have won 20, Worcester 11 and there have been two draws – one of which was the last time these sides met (25-25, 2022).
• London Irish have lost just once to Worcester in their last 13 home games.
• Worcester’s victory over Bath in the final round of the 2021/22 regular season ended a three-match losing streak for the Warriors.