DAVE Sims has vowed to play on through the pain for Worcester despite the loss of his father.

The lock will take his place in the Worcester line-up to face Manchester tomorrow (3pm), and will dedicate the season to his dad's memory.

John Sims passed away earlier this week after a long battle against cancer but Dave, because of his father's wishes, will play through his grief.

Worcester lead National One by three points from second-placed Leeds and cannot afford a slip-up before their April 1 trip to Headingley.

And Sims is more determined than ever to win promotion for the club who, he said, have been "fantastic" during a tough time.

He said: "My father has supported me all through my rugby career and would want me to play. He was an absolute inspiration to me and followed me wherever I played.

"He has watched me and supported Worcester until he became too ill to come. He would expect me to play and I want to play and dedicate the season to him."

Sims added: "The club have been absolutely fantastic since they knew about my dad's cancer and certainly Adrian Skeggs has been a real help.

"He has been through a similar situation with his family and has always been there for me. It just makes me more determined that we should win promotion this season."

Coach Skeggs paid tribute to his second row star who he believes is now the best second row player in the league.

He said: "Dave Sims has been phenomenal for us this season and it is a testament to him that he wants to play despite losing his father.

"The guy has been a revelation for us and has been a very positive influence on not just the team but also the squad.

"I think he has been mismanaged in the past because at the moment he is undoubtedly the best second rower in the league.

"I used to think he was a 50-minute player but he has certainly proved me wrong this season because he has been fantastic for us."