ANDY Keast has labelled Wor-cester's showdown with Gloucester as "the biggest game of the season so far."

The Warriors head coach knows his players are desperate to make their mark in Worcester's first ever Premiership derby with the Cherry & Whites today at Sixways (2pm).

And Keast, who along with the Sixways director of rugby John Brain is a former Gloucester coach, understands the importance of this blockbusting sell-out.

"Without a doubt, it's the biggest game of the season so far," he said.

"It's our first proper derby with Gloucester and it's a game that we are relishing. They are, of course, a top, top quality side and the atmosphere is going to be something special with 8,500 packed into Sixways."

The game has been sold out for weeks as thousands of Gloucester supporters snapped up tickets well in advance of the match. And Brain believes the Worcester fans will have their part to play in the clash.

"I thought the Worcester support during the Quins game was outstanding," said Brain. "In fact, a lot of the neutral Press on that day remarked on the cauldron atmosphere at Sixways.

"I'm sure that our supporters will have a lot of competition from the travelling 'Shed'. However, I believe our support will be up for it and it will make a difference for our players.

"Every player wants to play in front of a big, atmospheric crowd. The better the atmosphere, the more intense you feel about the game."

For all the support, however, Brain is under no illusions about the size of Worcester's task against Gloucester.

"We are underdogs, there's no doubt about it," he said. "Gloucester will have at least 10 internationals on the pitch.

"However, we go into the game believing that we are developing as a Premiership side."