Redpath expects ‘full-blooded’ west country derby against Worcester

Gloucester coach Bryan Redpath has dismissed talk of Worcester being relegation candidates as his side prepare to lock horns with the Warriors at Kingsholm today.

The Warriors marked their return to the top flight, having secured promotion from the Championship at the first attempt last term, with a 17-12 victory over Sale at Sixways last weekend. Despite the win there are still plenty who expect Richard Hill’s side to be facing a battle for survival come the end of the campaign, but Redpath says he would be “naive” to expect anything other than a full-blooded contest in their West Country derby.

“Most of the people saying those things are paid to have an opinion,” he said. “Players, coaches etc have too much respect for each other to talk about who will be top or bottom. They know how difficult it is. The last time Worcester played at Kingsholm, they played very well, as they did the previous time.

Redpath has handed full debuts to scrum-half Nick Runciman, once of Worcester, and lock Tom Savage with Dave Lewis and Alex Brown out injured.

There are also two changes among the Warriors ranks with fly-half Joe Carlisle and hooker Chris Fortey given the chance to shine.

Today’s other action sees early pacesetters Bath meet defending champions Saracens at The Rec, while Exeter look to follow up their impressive win over Leicester against Newcastle.

Tomorrow’s only fixture sees the Tigers travel to face fierce rivals Wasps at Adams Park.