THE war of words between Premiership and First Division rugby clubs intensified last night as a last-ditch attempt to avoid a High Court date failed.

Worcester's Cecil Duckworth, representing First Division clubs, tried in vain to prevent Friday's High Court action with a meeting between the two parties.

However, after another deadlock, Duckworth admitted there was little alternative but to battle it out in court with no further meetings scheduled.

He said: "It is a very sad state of affairs that it has come to this but the Premiership clubs will not budge."

Premiership clubs want to eliminate promotion or relegation between the Zurich Premiership and National League Division One.

However, Duckworth believes he has the most important support on his side, namely the RFU.

He added: "Nobody wants this new system because it is outrageous. The supporters do not want it, the sponsors, the clubs and the RFU support us on the subject.

"What we want is one automatic promotion slot and a play-off place for the runners-up. I am confident that is what we will get."