Liverpool St Helens 7 Worcester 42 NEWLY promoted millionaire club Worcester put on a display of devastating rugby at Moss LAne on Saturday, showing they will be realistic promotion candidates at the end of the season if they continue to produce this form.

The match, the first in the newly formed Jewson English League Division One, was spoiled as a contest when LSH found that several new recruits had not been registered in time. Skipper Brian Wellens and experienced flanker Dave Gaskell were ruled out through injury and prolific points scorer Simon Humphreys had taken the first two weeks of the season as his holidays. Not the ideal start to a season in which survival is likely to be the aim.

Good points there were however. Jim Salisbury was a revelation at full-back, tackling well and making several strong runs through the visitors defence. Tim Wood, returning from Orrell, worked hard and deserved his try, Mark Sephton in the unaccustomed position of centre, did all that was asked of him and Colin King gave the Worcester front row a worrying time until a back injury forced him to retire in the second half.

The day belonged to Worcester, however. Tigerish in the tackle, quick and confident in their support play and at times handling with bewildering accuracy inspired by coach Les Cusworth, former England fly half and backs coach.

LSH did not capitulate, but there appears to be a long hard season ahead.

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