WORCESTER Rugby Club are confident that tomorrow's National One clash against Henley Hawks (3pm) will beat the big freeze.

The club's groundstaff have been using hot-air blowers on the Sixways pitch to keep the frost at bay as well as using covers.

And the league leaders are optimistic they will be able to stage the game.

Meanwhile, former Australian international Tony Macarthur is hoping to put one over his Wallaby counterpart Adrian Skeggs when he brings his Henley side to Worcester tomorrow.

The Dry Leas director of rugby, a former Aussie international centre, is in buoyant mood following his side's 30-12 win over London Welsh and after slaying the dragon, Macarthur has a kangaroo in his sights.

He said: "We are not coming there to just lie down, we intend to give them a good game. I was delighted with our display against the Welsh because we showed not only character but also played some good rugby.

"We go into the game in confident mood but, of course, we know it will tough because they are the league leaders and a professional outfit."

He added: "I've spoken to Adrian a few times this season and he's obviously doing a good job because they are top of the table.

"However, if I was a betting man I would have to put my money on Leeds Tykes for the title because they are playing extremely well at present. They beat us comprehensively when we played them last month and they have certainly made some useful additions to their side in the last few months.

"They seem to be getting stronger and stronger while Worcester aren't playing as well as they were.

"It is always very tough when you come up against a full-time side because I only have my players together for five hours a week whereas Worcester's and Leeds' players are together all week.

"However, because we are part-time, Worcester is a huge game for us. We are going to the league leaders with nothing to lose and hoping to continue our good form. I want a top-five finish this season and we are well on the way to achieving that."

Macarthur's biggest selection dilemma is whether to include Nick Buoy who impressed with 20 points after coming on as substitute against London Welsh. Matt Jones could drop to the bench.