AS WORCESTER Warriors reflect on what has been a miserable campaign, we asked some of the club’s hardy supporters to give their highs and lows.
Favourite game at Sixways?
It may be an obvious choice, but our win against local rivals Gloucester has to rank as number one. A great comeback after leaking three soft tries to end a difficult season on a high.
Try of the season?
David Lemi against Exeter Chiefs at home. After Dean Richards’ comments about him getting too old, Lemi’s pace and footballing skills really shone through as he kicked down the left wing before collecting the ball and diving over in the corner.
Unsung hero?
Chris Pennell has deserved the plaudits this season, and rightly so, but for his tremendous workrate across the pitch I’m giving this to Sam Betty. He really does put his body on the line for the team.
Spencer Morris
Star player?
It is hard not to say Chris Pennell as he has been outstanding this season. But, looking at the squad as a whole, Jonathan Thomas, Mike Williams, James Percival and Sam Betty have all stood out as well.
Match to forget?
Our last minute defeat at home to London Wasps was a definite low point for me. This all but sealed our fate.
What to expect in the Championship?
I am actually looking forward to a season in the second tier. There will be some great away days to enjoy and it also offers the chance to create a new desire within the club along with a strong academy.
Martyn Jones
When did Warriors look doomed?
After our defeat to London Irish as we still had Leicester Tigers, Northampton Saints, Bath and Saracens to play.
Best away performance?
If we had stayed up it would have been our vital away win against Newcastle Falcons, but as we did not then it has to go to our display at Harlequins where we secured a losing bonus point.
What needs to improve next season?
Our defence. Bristol have shown you can finish top of the Championship by saying ‘no matter how many you score we will score more’, but I am unsure whether that will get you through the play-off system.
Phill Mason
Biggest disappointment?
The team’s performance away to London Irish. From a supporters’ perspective it looked as if certain players did not have pride in playing for the shirt.
Proudest moment?
After Worcester’s win at Newcastle, I felt vindicated in buying into the club’s vision – seeing a group of players wanting to play for each other.
Three players to watch next season?
Ryan Lamb. He will be targeted so it will be good to see how he adapts and learns as this could be a character-building season for him.
Christian Scotland-Williamson. It will be interesting to see how he progresses in the academy and if he can push for a place in the first team.
Ryan Mills. If he stays fit and shows the promise everyone has talked about, I think he will provide a creativity which the team has been crying out for.
Dave Long