Tindall helps tame Warriors

Mike Tindall marked his return to action with a try to help Gloucester maintain their perfect start to the new campaign with a 29-7 win over Worcester.

The England centre, back after five months out with a broken leg, got a lucky bounce to score in the closing minutes at Kingsholm.

James-Simpson Daniel and Olivier Azam had earlier crossed in contrasting circumstances as the hosts celebrated the opening of their new £10million stand in style.

Ryan Lamb continued his fine form with 17 points for the Cherry and Whites, who made it three for three in the Guinness Premiership despite being without injured duo Lesley Vainikolo and Iain Balshaw.

Turgid

What Worcester wouldn't give for one win. After narrowly avoiding relegation last year, they are already struggling near the foot of the table with two points to their name.

The visitors spent much of the opening half falling foul of referee David Rose, giving away nine penalties, mostly for infringing at the breakdown.

New coach Mike Ruddock would have therefore been relieved that his side were only 6-0 down at the break after two Lamb kicks.

The talented fly-half also missed two other straightforward chances to extend the lead, while opposite number Shane Drahm was also off target with a shot at the posts.

A late hit from centre Dale Rasmussen cost Worcester three more points soon after the interval as Lamb picked himself up and slotted over the easy penalty.

But the game finally came to life on 46 minutes when Simpson-Daniel made the most of some space to race over.

Inside out

A loose pass by Worcester ran kindly to the winger who then outpaced Rasmussen before turning full-back Thinus Delport inside out.

Lamb's conversion madse it 16-0, though Worcester quickly replied with a try of their own when substitute Gavin Quinnell made an instant impression by barging over from close range.

However, Gloucester reasserted their superiority with a fine catch-and-drive from a lineout that resulted in Azam getting the ball down.

The Warriors battled on bravely but the game was finally up when skipper Pat Sanderson was somewhat harshly yellow carded for hands in at the ruck.

Lamb added a drop goal soon after before setting up Tindall's try with a clever kick over the top that eluded Marcel Garvey, allowing the comeback kid to steal the headlines.

The majority of the record crowd of 15,781 went home happy at the final result which leaves Gloucester sitting pretty on top of the pile.