WARRIORS made history by winning for the first time in 122 years at Welford Road as they beat Leicester Tigers in a breathtaking Premiership thriller on Saturday.
As well as being the Sixways side’s first win on the road this season and their first in the Premiership since March 2015, it was also their maiden win in 15 attempts at Welford Road dating back to 1895.
Early tries for Alafoti Faosiliva and Josh Adams set Worcester on their way before Mike Fitzgerald pulled one back for Tigers.
A sublime solo score by Adams then moved the visitors into a 19-10 lead, before Valentino Mapapalangi bundled over to leave Leicester within two at the interval.
Jack Singleton finished off a sensational run from Bryce Heem in the second period to secure Warriors’ try-bonus point, but once again Tigers mauled their way back into the contest courtesy of a Joe Ford penalty.
A late Ryan Mills try seemed to have sealed the win for Worcester, but Gareth Owen grounded to set up an intense finale.
But Worcester held on for the five-point victory in a match director of rugby Gary Gold hailed as the ‘ultimate team game’.
“You’re taking on a 16th man out there (Welford Road). It’s a very hostile environment as many teams have found out over the years, so I’m delighted for the group and the club,” said Gold.
“There were some guys who were absolutely outstanding. Chris Pennell and Ryan Mills were brilliant, Francois Hougaard was always asking questions, Will Spencer and Sam Lewis worked tirelessly and the front row scrummed really well.
“The reserves came on and made a difference too, but I’m so proud of every single member of the side. It was the ultimate team game,” he added.
Warriors take on Sale Sharks, who sit just one place and six points above them in the Premiership table, at Sixways on Friday night (7.45pm).