THE Rec has never been a happy hunting ground for Worcester Warriors – but an ex-Bath academy player believes that could be about to change on Saturday (12.45pm).

Speaking to the Worcester Warriors Podcast former hooker Ollie Hayes has backed his old club Warriors to beat the team he joined as a youngster.

Bath have won all 13 of their home meetings with Worcester but with several of their key men missing due to injury and international duty Hayes reckons this upcoming Premiership clash is the Sixways side’s “big chance” to end another wretched away record.

“This will be a good game for Worcester,” said Hayes who made 14 appearances for Warriors between 2011 and 2013.

“Bath have Zac Mercer and Sam Underhill away with England and the likes of Anthony Watson and Jonathan Joseph out injured so this is a big chance for Worcester.”

Only points differences separate the two sides but they are both in contrasting form. While Warriors have won five of their past six games across the Premiership, European Challenge Cup and Premiership Cup Bath are on a seven-match winless streak in all competitions.

“Once you are on a roll winning becomes a habit,” Hayes continued.

“Winning week in week out in different competitions is a massive boost for the coaches and players and creates a better team morale.

“Worcester are going to be up for this and I really do think they can come to Bath and turn them over.”

This week’s podcast also sees Hayes reflect on his playing days at Warriors and Bristol Bears and his decision to retire aged 25 due to injury.

The Bath-based 28-year-old now runs his own personal training business, called OllieHayesPT, and coaches at Oldfield Rugby Club.

It is also available to download from SOUNDCLOUD and iTunes.

The first six episodes are available to download from iTunes or click the links below.

WORCESTER WARRIORS PODCAST: EPISODE ONE

WORCESTER WARRIORS PODCAST: EPISODE TWO

WORCESTER WARRIORS PODCAST: EPISODE THREE

WORCESTER WARRIORS PODCAST: EPISODE FOUR

WORCESTER WARRIORS PODCAST: EPISODE FIVE

WORCESTER WARRIORS PODCAST: EPISODE SIX