WORCESTER chairman Cecil Duckworth is confident his Warriors will turn up trumps tomorrow and preserve prized Zurich Premiership status at Harlequins' expense.

Rock-bottom Quins, Worcester, Northampton, Leeds or London Irish could relinquish their place in the top flight this weekend, with just two points separating all five clubs and National League One champions Bristol Shoguns waiting for the promotion green light.

Quins have by far the toughest task, effectively needing to beat title play-off contenders Sale Sharks at The Stoop with a bonus point to pile pressure on Worcester and Northampton, who clash at Sixways.

If Quins somehow shred the form guide and achieve mission improbable, then Worcester or Saints are likely fall-guys.

"Both clubs (Worcester and Northampton) know the importance of this fixture, although it is my belief that neither club, win or lose, will find themselves in 12th position," said millionaire businessman Duckworth.

"In my view, Sale, when at full strength, are one of the best teams in the Premiership.

"Although we have eight wins and Harlequins only six, we cannot rule out the possibility of them winning their final game, although it would appear to be extremely unlikely.

"Our strategy is that we cannot risk what happens elsewhere, but to control our own destiny and ensure we win our final game."

Toughness

Northampton coach Budge Pountney believes mental toughness could prove crucial in the quest for survival on Premiership judgement day.

"There is a lot riding on this game," he said. "It is a case of whoever wins will be safe, and in that respect, it is a one-off game.

"The guys who are mentally strong will help us come through this game. There are an awful lot of players who physically do not seem to suit being a rugby player, but are very mentally tough.

"We will need them tomorrow, when we all need to stay calm and collected and not get too tense."

No Saints player will be under a more spotlight than their Australian fly-half Shane Drahm.

Goalkicker Drahm, who looks set to be announced in the Northampton starting line-up when Pountney reveals it later today, has already been signed by Worcester next season, but could now find himself booting a penalty to send Warriors down.

Quins, meanwhile, will at least take some comfort from a Sale injury list that includes Lions Charlie Hodgson and Andy Titterrell, who are both doubts, although the Sharks are motivated by gaining a bonus point win which could secure third place and Heineken Cup qualification.