Worcester Warriors

Chris Latham: A big buy

Club Details

Sixways Stadium
Pershore Lane
Worcester
WR3 8ZE

Stadium Capacity: 8,328
Website: www.wrfc.co.uk
Founded: 1871

- 2008/9 Season Preview -

Skybet title odds - 50/1

Last time around: Worcester were involved in a basement battle for the season's majority after recording just two wins in the opening thirteen rounds of 2007/08! However, a late run of results and losing bonus points throughout the year ensured survival with loan returnee Shane Drahm arguably the catalyst. Making the final of Europe's Challenge Cup was a welcome finish to cushion early disappointments!

This time around? There's no doubt that the Warriors will have done all they can to avoid another slow start to their season! A lot could fall on whether promising fly-half Matt Jones can steer the side but with the steadying influence of Chris Latham overseeing from depth, they could kick on from that Kingsholm final!

Coach: The Warriors' aesthetically pleasing brand of rugby wowed the neutral as relegation concerns were well and truly put to bed with ample time to spare. And many would put that down to their players buying into Mike Ruddock's style - can they carry that form through for a profitable start?

One to watch: Following an impressive culmination to last season before star backs Shane Drahm and Thinus Delport waved goodbye to the Guinness Premiership, the Warriors knew they had to buy big to excel. And that they've certainly done with Wallaby legend Chris Latham sure to bring on talented wings Marcel Garvey and Miles Benjamin in an exciting back three!

In: Matt Jones (London Welsh), Ben Jones (Doncaster), Chris Latham (Reds), Hal Luscombe (Harlequins).

Out: Thinus Delport, Shane Drahm, Drew Hickey (all Japan), Tony Windo (coaching), Phil Murphy (Leeds), Gavin Quinnell (Viadana).

PR prediction: 9th