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MIKE Ruddock has challenged his Warriors to make history in tomorrow's Guinness Premiership battle with local rivals Gloucester at Sixways (3pm).

Worcester are unbeaten in their last three league matches, but have never managed to beat the men from Kingsholme in the Premiership - their best result remains the 15-15 draw at Sixways in September 2005.

However, tomorrow could be a good time to play Dean Ryan's men as they have slipped to four defeats in their last six Premiership outings and have relinquished top spot for the first time this season.

Also, the Cherry and Whites have lost their last five away games in all competitions - their poorest away trot since season 1999/2000.

Sixways director of rugby Ruddock said: "We are aware that we haven't beaten Gloucester in the league and we have spoken about making some history.

"We beat them in the Middlesex Sevens earlier in the season and, if we are serious about winning, we have to start the game better than we have done recently - particularly in the Leeds match.

"We have also talked about the importance of scoring the first points - that was key to our win at Sale."

Without a fixture last weekend. the Warriors players have been able to rest, but Ruddock is in two minds whether or not the time off has been a good thing.

He added: "Obviously we had a few bumps and bruises in the squad after the three tough games so, in one respect, the break came at the right time.

"But, having said that, we haven't been defeated in three matches, so it would have been nice to keep that run going without a break.

"We had a little bit of mixed emotions as to whether or not we wanted that continuity, but what I would see is that it is gone now and all we can do now is focus on the echallenge of playing Gloucester.

"Gloucester are a fine side and I was really impressed when watching them from afar last season and saw their run into the play-offs.

"It didn't really go for them in the final though as Leicester were really dominant and had a good game-plan. I think Gloucester have improved from that and are an even better side this year.

"However, they are coming here to Sixways, the game has been a sell-out for a number of weeks now and there will be a massive atmosphere. Hopefully we can do enough to get the result."

Former Sixways and King's School, Worcester, player Luke Narraway is expected to be in the Glou-cester team tomorrow.

The number eight figured in the senior England set-up for the first time this season.

7:55am Friday 28th March 2008

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