JOSH Matavesi will be drawing on his experience of playing in France last season to help Warriors come out of the bear pit that is Perpignan’s Stade Aime Giral unscathed.

Worcester head to the South of France this weekend for the second installment of their decisive Amlin Challenge Cup double-header with the French Top 14 giants.

Worcester claimed a 22-21 victory in the first leg at Sixways last Thursday and Matavesi is hoping his side can complete the job tomorrow night (9pm GMT).

The Cornwall-born Fijian international centre joined Warriors at the start of this season after spending a year playing in the French top-flight for Racing Metro.

The 22-year-old relished his time in the French capital and is hoping his experience of playing on the other side of the Channel can be a benefit to Worcester this weekend.

He said: “Perpignan are one of the most physical teams in the Top 14.

“I played them last season and you definitely know you’ve played them the day after.

“The match will be one of the most physical games we’re going to play this season. You talk about Leicester Tigers at Welford Road, but this is going to be another level.

“I think it will help me that I played in France last season because you get your knowledge and you remember what was said in the meetings. But you have to wait and see which team turns up.

“We (Racing) beat them at home last season and just lost to them by two or three points away.

“They always play well at home.

“On their day they are one of the best teams in France – they can beat the likes of Toulouse and Toulon.

“They’re one of those sides who will get under your skin, they’re so physical and they don’t stop.”

Matavesi added: “I absolutely loved playing in France. Getting to play with world class players week in, week out was a good thing but I like it here.

“I’m getting consistent game time and playing every week which is one of my main goals – just keep improving as a player.”