News

Ruddock dismisses tiredness talk

October 01 2008

Worcester Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock has dismissed the fatigue factor as having any bearing on his players in Thursday's Guinness Premiership clash against Harlequins.

The Warriors face their second Premiership game in six days, then tackle EDF Energy Cup opponents London Irish on Sunday. It's a daunting schedule, and there's no let-up the following week when the Warriors begin their European Challenge Cup campaign.

"It has been a quick turnaround, but it is the same this week for every Premiership team," said Ruddock.

"We can't worry too much about it.

"It puts pressure on us in terms of the time we have to relay information to the players about the opposition, but we always work a week in advance to combat that.

"We have prepared really well - the sessions have gone fantastically well - so it is not fingers crossed that we have plenty in the tank after the game at Bath (last Saturday).

"We won't dwell on fatigue. We have shown great energy in training, and I don't think anyone will look for an excuse."

Worcester, despite beating Premiership champions Wasps, suffered defeats in their three other league games so far this term against Northampton, Leicester and Bath.

But victory over Quins could lift them comfortably clear of bottom club Bristol.

Ruddock hands a first Premiership start to 20-year-old wing Charlie Fellows, who replaces groin injury victim Chris Pennell, while Wales international Matthew Jones takes over from Loki Crichton at fly-half.

Pennell apart, other injury absentees include Pat Sanderson, James Collins, Rico Gear, Hal Luscombe and Marcel Garvey.