SATURDAY’S British & Irish Cup opener against Newport at Sixways was very enjoyable to watch.

Not only did we win in a convincing way, but how the guys went about winning impressed me.

It was a good opportunity for the squad to show its strength in depth and to show the ability coming through in the academy. The intensity was superb.

We can also be pleased that our first full game to be broadcast on television this season showed us in a good light.

I was particularly impressed with Joe Carlisle, who earned a deserved man-of-the-match award. Joe controlled the game well and seemed to choose the right option every time.

He has also now had the pressure piled on him to choose his country as the Welsh commentators had some big plans for him!

However, Joe assures me he would have to choose England as his dad may never speak to him again if he pulled on a Welsh jersey!

Several of the guys that played on Saturday then doubled up and made the trip to face Sale Jets in the Aviva ‘A’ League on Monday night.

Unfortunately, the momentum was hard to carry over and the ‘A’ team suffered a heavy defeat to the unbeaten Jets outfit.

The busy Christmas period is set to continue tonight as we take on Doncaster in a re-arranged Championship fixture.

As mentioned a couple of weeks ago, we are well aware just how big a challenge the Knights will present after our far-from-convincing win earlier in the season.

However, the same theory applies from last time — if we play well, we will win!

It is hugely important to set the record straight and travel home on a happy bus.

Given the nature of this difficult week, our performance can be nothing less than professional. The boys playing will be fresh after having a low-key week last week, so those fans braving the journey should see plenty of energy!

After our return to the Championship tonight, we quickly switch back to the B&I Cup for a long trip up north.

Currie, I am sure, will be another test of our squad depth and our professionalism. I was interested to see the result from the weekend as Cornish Pirates took on Currie in their opening cup game. It was definitely a game for the spectator as it finished 54-31 to the Cornishmen.

Travelling up from Worcester seems relatively straight forward in comparison to that journey. What it does show is that Currie can obviously play some good rugby.

I should probably round things up there as I’ve still got to make a dent in the huge list of presents to buy.

I will not be braving the crowds, but instead putting my laptop to good uses other than writing this article.

I really hope everyone’s shopping is going better than mine and you are all looking forward to what should be a winning Christmas for the Warriors.