A CAPACITY crowd greeted Worcester Warriors on the club’s eagerly-anticipated return to professional rugby at Sixways Stadium.
Warriors returned to competitive action following a more than three-year absence after the club entered administration in September 2022.
Around 9,000 supporters watched on at Sixways as Worcester came from behind to beat Coventry 29-19 in the club’s first Champ Rugby game of the season.
Tries from Will Reed, Tom Seabrook, Matt Kvesic and Ashley Challenger sealed a late bonus point win for Matt Everard’s side.
Warriors entered the pitch to a guard of honour made up of children, family members and flag bearers.
Supporters arrived early to gather in a fanzone which featured food and drink, live entertainment and a walk through from the playing squad.
Once fans had taken their seats, the team run out was accompanied by music and smoke flares as Warriors made a dramatic entrance to the field.
And Worcester rewarded the sold-out crowd at Sixways as Reed kicked a late penalty to put Warriors ahead before Challenger crossed for a try at the death to seal the points.
A bonus point victory also ensured Warriors made the perfect start to the season with the club aiming to return to the Premiership at the first attempt.
All pictures by Marcus Mingins 4125004MMR
