Worcester boss fears for crisis rugby club's future

Worcester director of rugby Steve Diamond said the cash-strapped rugby union club still faced an uncertain future after a gutsy 36-21 loss at home to Exeter in the English Premiership on Sunday.

Worcester's debts have soared to a reported 25 million ($28 million) and this weekend's game only got the go-ahead on Friday after the Warriors just met a deadline to provide a safety certificate for matches at their Sixways Stadium.

Many Worcester players and staff have received just 65 percent of their salaries for August, a point recognised by several members of the backroom team forming a guard of honour for the Warriors side that took the field in front of a limited crowd of 5,000.

Worcester co-owner Jason Whittingham released another statement Sunday saying he believes the club will have new owners -- and investment -- within the next 48 hours.

But Diamond, speaking after Sunday's match, said: "I don't know how long we can keep going with this as I've been informed that negotiations are taking place behind the scenes but I'm not party to them."

'Don't know how long we can keep going'

Diamond added: "There are limits to how many times players or staff can turn out on goodwill without being paid and it's impossible for anyone to work without any internet and heating with winter around the corner."

And the former Sale supremo, while saying Midlands club Worcester hoped to fulfil their fixture against Gloucester on Wednesday, warned the Warriors were trying the patience of UK financial authorities.

"Realistically I don't know how long we can keep going for with the winding-up application due in late September, a line has to be drawn somewhere," he said.

Despite all the off-field struggles, Worcester were competitive against Exeter