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Rugby Union

Warriors reach Challenge Cup final after win over Falcons

25/04/2008

Worcester have reached the final of the European Challenge Cup after beating Newcastle 31-16 at Sixways Stadium.

The Warriors, who led 14-6 at the break, were led to victory by tries from Tom Wood, Marcel Garvey and a brace from Sam Tuitupou.

Star man Shane Drahm kicked all four conversions along with a penalty for the home side.

The Warriors welcomed back centre Dale Rasmussen to the side after recovering from concussion while skipper Pat Sanderson started despite suffering a dead leg last weekend against Bath.

Jonny Wilkinson returned for the Falcons after the fly-half recovered from concussion. Centres Jamie Noon and Toby Flood along with flanker Ben Woods also returned from injuries.

Blindside Andy Buist shook off a knee injury to take his place in the pack, while All Black prop Carl Hayman, skipper Phil Dowson and England fullback Mathew Tait were restored to the side.

But the return of the big guns failed to inspire the Falcons.

Wilkinson scored most of the visitors' points with two penalties and a conversion, with Brent Wilson scoring a consolation try three minutes from time.

Worcester will play with the winner of Bath versus Sale, which takes place tomorrow.