For the first time in 2022 worcester mixed ability dusted off their boots for a game with a large travelling squad including 7 possible debutants for the short trip down the M5 to Longlevens in Glouceste
A mixed men and women's side saw off Longelevens in a 20 minute touch game 6-2 with some outstanding running performances from Joanne gatford and Katie Simms.
After that and a mix and match Worcester side of beginners and experienced players took on Longlevens in two halves of 30min inclusive rugby for players of all abilities and disabilities. An edgy and physical first half ended 0-0 with Worcester looking the more likely to score. Two gilt edges opportunities came to nothing with an obvious knock on in the tackle from Longlevens unseen by the referee with captain Tom Reeves unmarked outside James Lauchlan who'd broken through some stuff defence.
The second half became a little more feisty with a yellow for the Longlevens centre for a high tackle on Worcester winger and debutant Andrew Massey. Worcester took full advantage scoring a try through the middle from fly half Niall McKenna. Worcester kept their foot down and played wide putting in replacement centre Charlie Prince to make it 10-0. A mix up at the back in the Worcester defence let in Longlevens for an easy score to make it 10-5 before Worcester saw the game out with some dominant defence and smart play allowing Charlie Prince to slalom through again to finish it off 15-5.
There was also time for a yellow card on each side after some unsportsmanlike like behaviour from Longlevens which was returned in kind by Worcester back row Jamie Taylor meaning a 10min breather for both.
Always a close affair this local derby was claimed this time by Worcester with the headlines going to the 7 debutants including Player of the Match Theo Prince who'd waited 18 months to make his debut due to Covid restrictions. He has a bright future in the blue and gold of Worcester RFC.
