Rugby Union
Warriors chief demands big reaction

Buy photos » Centre Alex Grove, pictured here in action against Leicester, could make way for new signing Ravai Fatiaki against London Wasps on Sunday. Picture by Ian Smith.

WORCESTER Warriors head coach Richard Hill has demanded a big reaction from his players when they travel to London Wasps in a crucial Aviva Premiership clash at Adams Park on New Year's Day (Sunday).

The Sixways boss was unhappy with his side's performance in their 32-13 defeat to Leicester Tigers on Tuesday and is now looking to get back on track with victory over Wasps, who will also be aiming to bounce back following their heavy Boxing Day loss to Gloucester.

"I'm not happy with the performance against Leicester, so we need a reaction from that. We underperformed and that is not good enough," he said.

"We have got a short turn around but we have got to have a reaction. I know Wasps want one as they were thumped against Gloucester, so it will be two teams going into the match wanting to prove a point and get back on track."

Victory for Hill's men would see them climb above Wasps in the table, who they currently trail by three points.

And despite the High Wycombe-based side losing their past four Premiership fixtures, Hill, who is likely to include new recruits Ezra Taylor and Ravai Fatiaki in his squad, believes Worcester will need to be on their guard against a potent attack.

"Wasps will be different to Leicester - the strength is in their backs with Nick Robinson and Riki Flutey and Christian Wade on one wing and Tom Varndell on the other. They have got an absolutely electric three quarter line," he added.

"The problem Wasps had against Gloucester was not getting enough ball to them, so our main role will be to try and stem the flow of ball they get from their set piece because if their backs get it they are a lot more dangerous."