FLANKER Mat Gilbert certainly knows what it takes to win the Aviva A-League title.

Gilbert was part of the Bath United side who clinched the crown last season after overcoming Northampton’s second string in the final.

Now Gilbert plies his trade with Worcester Warriors and he has scored crucial tries in Cavaliers’ run to tonight’s semi-final with Bath at Sixways (7.30pm).

Cavaliers could come face-to-face with England winger Semesa Rokoduguni but ex-Great Britain rugby league star Sam Burgess started for Bath’s first team at Leicester yesterday.

“We have done well in the A-League this season and it would be great to continue that form,” said Gilbert, who has played in five Cavaliers matches.

“It would be nice to reward those players in the Cavaliers who have got us to this stage. We have a strong group who could play.

“Bath are the current holders. I played in the final against Northampton last season and had a 10-minute breather after I was sent to the sin bin.

“It was a tough game against Northampton and I also remember we came through a test against Harlequins. The A-League is an excellent competition.”

Cavaliers secured top spot in the Northern Conference with a 100 per cent record, including bonus point victories over Leicester and Newcastle as they scored 31 tries in total.

With Worcester scoring the highest number of tries in the competition, a victory over Bath would see them host the final at Sixways on January 12.

But, should Bath emerge triumphant and Saracens beat Newcastle, Saracens will host the final as they won the Southern Conference.

Gilbert said: “Bath have a very large squad and some very powerful players who are pushing for their first team.

“Some of them are probably playing in the A-League to get as much game-time as possible and I imagine they will bring another strong squad to Worcester.

“I am sure Bath were playing Burgess in the A-League to try to find out which position he is best suited to away from the pressure of the first team.

“Having the chance of a home game in the final is an incentive for us to go all the way. We know Dean Ryan is looking to build a winning mentality throughout the club from the academy to the Cavaliers to the first team.”

Gilbert enjoyed the majority of his spell at Bath before linking up with Warriors and believes the Sixways crowd will have an important role to play tonight.

He added: “We had excellent support at our last home game in the A-League and good vocal support from the stands certainly lifts the players out on the field.

“I enjoyed the majority of my time at Bath and, whether I am playing or watching tonight’s match, it will be good to catch up with the lads I know.”