Worcester Warriors flanker Marco Mama has admitted that Zebre's 27-8 win over the Aviva Premiership side in the Challenge Cup owed much to the Italian team's stronger start.
Carlos Canna kicked 17 points for the Pro 12 outfit as Dean Ryan's men failed to build on their victory over Stade Rochelais last weekend.
However, Bristol loanee Mama has suggested that Zebre's intensity from the start proved decisive.
He told the Worcester News: "It was a pretty tough game away from home against a side who were really enthusiastic and fired up for the contest.
"We started off pretty poorly and I don't think we were ready for it. All credit to Zebre. I think they were better prepared for the game than us.
"They came out fighting and put a lot of pressure on us through their set-piece and that's why they started so strongly and scored those early points."
Worcester's only try in Italy came courtesy of Dean Hammond's late consolation score.
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