Worcester Warriors secure dramatic win in rugby Champ play-off final
Club celebrates remarkable return after previous expulsion from Premiership
Worcester Warriors have marked their return to English rugby with triumph in the Champ play-off final against Bedford Blues, capping a historic season for the club.
Despite finishing fourth in the regular season, Worcester shocked the league by defeating unbeaten leaders Ealing Trailfinders in the semi-finals before overcoming second-placed Bedford in the final.
This victory completes a remarkable turnaround for Worcester, who faced expulsion from the Premiership in the 2022-23 season due to financial troubles that led to the club's administration and eventual disbandment.
Hugh Bokenham's early try gave Warriors a head start, but Bedford responded with scores from Joey Conway and Dean Adamson, taking the lead 14-5. Tim Anstee's try and Will Reed's effort under late first-half pressure allowed Worcester to reclaim a narrow halftime advantage.
Bedford faced a setback with Fred Tuilagi's sin-binning for an off-the-ball incident in the second half, enabling Siva Naulago to extend Worcester's lead to 24-14. Billy Twelvetrees sealed the win with a penalty as Worcester celebrated their return to form with silverware.