ORRELL may yet be the surprise package this season in National One but I don't see them upsetting the applecart on Saturday.

The Lancashire side, boosted by their allegiance with Super League giants Wigan Warriors, go head to head with Worcester in an early showdown which will give some indications of both teams' respective strengths.

And after their 70-23 battering of Rugby Lions in the opening game of the season, it is they -- not Worcester -- who top the table going into the Sixways clash.

The renaissance of Orrell has been nothing short of spectacular in the past two seasons. Relegated after a dreadful run in 2001, they set about sorting out their finances off the field and personnel on it.

Their partnership with Wigan and JJB Sports multi-millionaire owner Dave Whelan has had a massive effect and head coach Ross Reynolds certainly has the ambition to back the hard cash injections. New signings Drew Hickey and Wes Davies have already made a big impact on National One with seven tries between them against Rugby while Simon Haughton should prove to be a shrewd signing for the Edge Hall Road club. And after Scott Barrow's switch from Worcester in the summer, the centre will provide supporters with a fascinating sub plot when he lines up against his former club on Saturday.

It's exciting times once again for Orrell but Worcester will prove too much for them on Saturday. They will make an impact this season but it will be the usual suspects who battle out for the title and promotion to the Premiership. Worcester, Rotherham and Exeter will once again be the teams to beat this time around. And if they can find the key to scoring four or more tries consistently during December, January and February - this could yet be Worcester's year.

The start of the season is not the time to make rash predictions . . . but what the hell. We've all been here before, of course, as Worcester set off on another promotion bid. However, this time around there are major differences from the previous campaigns dubbed as failures.

Firstly, there is continuity at Sixways - something the club has been crying out for a number of years. The coaching set up is secure, the playing staff has been tinkered with rather than the usual Sixways MOT and the players who have been brought in will add strength to an already impressive squad.

I expect them to lay down a marker on Saturday. They came away from Coundon Road disappointed with their performance but, in the back of their minds, I think they were happy with the result.

Much of the talk in the city this week has been about Orrell's, Rotherham's or Exeter's hefty wins. Fair enough, but to dismiss Worcester's victory at Coventry is simply disrespectful. It is one of the most difficult places to go and get a result, especially for Worcester with so much needle between the two clubs. It must also be remembered that it was two late scores which flattered Coventry and gave the scoreline a rather closer ring to it than should have been the case.

Orrell, on paper, look a good side but supporters at Sixways are all too aware of the value of team spirit and continuity at a club. Their squad has been quickly put together and it will take time for them. Saturday, for me, is too soon for them and expect Worcester to come out on top with a bonus point victory.

Worcester already look a well-bonded squad and, importantly on Saturday, featured seven players from last season. Of the new boys, skipper Werner Swanepoel will be a key figure and keeping him fit must be top priority for coaches John Brain and Andy Keast, especially after the untimely departure of Richard Smith.

Much is expected of new fly half James Brown but a fit Craig Chalmers will provide him with stern competition for the number 10 jersey.

Chris Garrard, Ben Hinshelwood and Duncan Roke should benefit from another season under Keast while new wingers Nnamdi Ezulike and Craig Hudson offer the coaches a variety of options.

In the pack, competition for places is tougher than ever. Props Adrian Olver, Tony Windo, Neil Lyman, Gareth Mason and George Davis are all battling for a spot while Mark Gabey and Craig Gillies will put pressure on the second row partnership of Dan Zaltzman and Martin Morgan. Gabey looks an excellent signing, with his ability to play in the second or back row, and Gavin Pfister has already proved to be a player who is comfortable at National One level. The sheer consistency of Christian Evans and Jim Jenner should, however, never be undervalued.

After too many false dawns, the air of anticipation at Sixways is being backed by sensible, logical decisions which will go a long way to bring Premiership rugby to Worcester. Starting on Saturday, the chance to be part of that dream is up for grabs.

Read Mark Dobson every Thursday only in the Evening News.