CENTRE Jackson Willison has warned his Bath team-mates to limit Worcester Warriors danger man Bryce Heem’s time on the ball as the two friends collide on Saturday (12.45pm).

The New Zealanders formed a strong bond during their two seasons together at Warriors before Willison moved to Bath.

But the 30-year-old, who made 45 appearances for Worcester, now faces his former side when Warriors visit The Rec in the Gallagher Premiership.

“I’m very excited,” Willson said.

“I’ve had this match pencilled in the calendar for a while now, it will be nice to catch up with friends who I spent a good two years with.”

Worcester are in seventh place after a solid start to the campaign which has included a 44-37 victory at Leicester Tigers and a 52-7 win over Bristol Bears at Sixways.

With his pal Heem in superb form Willison is well aware of the threat his countryman and the rest of Worcester’s back-line pose.

The Kiwi also admits Bath will have to be at their very best up front to come out on top.

“Worcester come into the match in fine form so it’s not got going to be easy,” Willison said.

“Their backs possess danger in bucket loads so dominating in the forwards will help us.

“For me there are many great players in their team. A good friend of mine who is likely to line up on the wing is Bryce.

“We need to limit his time on the ball.

“In the forwards Sam Lewis stands out — he’s been outstanding for a few years now. I’m sure had he been playing back in Wales he’d probably have a Wales cap by now.

“I’ve been impressed by Worcester so far and their position in the table only confirms they have been going well.

“It’s an exciting match and we’ve prepared well so hopefully the result will go in our favour.”

Having lost six of their last seven games in all competitions Willison isn’t underestimating the importance of this weekend and believes the home supporters will play a crucial role in the outcome.

“This week the result is very important,” Willison added.

“We owe it to the supporters who have got behind us from the word go.

“It’s time to turn the corner and start putting in consistent performances that we can be proud of.

“We’re looking forward to running out at The Rec. Our supporters so far have been great and we certainly are going to need them behind us.”