A WEAKENED Worcester Ladies side were beaten 27-12 at Wasps in the RFUW Premiership.

Despite missing key players, Worcester arrived at Wasps optimistic of extending their improved run of form.

The Sixways side started impressively, dominating the first quarter, which resulted in a try for Kat Merchant, following impressive backs handling and a good off-load from Donna Kennedy.

However, defensive errors allowed the hosts to build a 17-5 half-time lead.

Worcester were down to 13 players for 10 minutes in the second-half due to yellow cards, but managed to reduce the deficit when good work from Sarah Guest put Jo Hubbleday through to score, Abi Chamberlain converting.

However, Wasps increased their lead and sealed victory thanks to some clever field-kicking from Shelley Rae.