Newcastle Falcons Vs Gloucester Rugby Programme

NEWCASTLE
FALCONS VS
GLOUCESTER
FRI 20.10.23
KO 18:00

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HOME
STARTING XV 1
15 LLOYD EVANS 2345678
14 JAKE MORRIS
13 CHRIS HARRIS
12 SEB ATKINSON
11 OLLIE THORLEY
10 GEORGE BARTON
9 STEPHEN VARNEY
STARTING XV 1
15 BEN REDSHAW 2345678
14 ADAM RADWAN
13 TOM PENNY
12 RORY JENNINGS
11 BEN STEVENSON
10 BRETT CONNON
9 HUGH O’SULLIVAN
ADAM BROCKLEBANK
JAMIE BLAMIRE
MURRAY MCCALLUM
PHILIP VAN DER WALT
SEBASTIAN DE CHAVES
FREDDIE LOCKWOOD
GUY PEPPER
CALLUM CHICK (C)
REPLACEMENTS
16 MICHAEL VAN VUUREN 17 PHIL BRANTINGHAM 18 MARK TAMPIN 19 KIRAN MCDONALD
20 SAM CROSS 21 SAM STUART 22 MATIAS ORLANDO 23 ELLIOTT OBATOYINBO
JAMAL FORD-ROBINSON
GEORGE MCGUIGAN
FRASER BALMAIN
FREDDIE CLARKE
ARTHUR CLARK
BEN DONNELL
LEWIS LUDLOW (C)
ZACH MERCER
REPLACEMENTS
16 SEB BLAKE 17 VAL RAPAVA-RUSKIN 18 CIARAN KNIGHT 19 FREDDIE THOMAS
20 JACK CLEMENT 21 CHARLIE CHAPMAN 22 MAX LLEWELLYN 23 ALEX HEARLE
AWAY
REFEREE: JACK MAKEPEACE
ASSISTANT REFEREES: ALEX THOMAS, JAMIE LEAHY
TELEVISION MATCH OFFICIAL: DEAN RICHARDS
TIME KEEPER: ALAN HUGHES
CITING OFFICER: CHRIS SHARP

THE PASSION AND
COMMITMENT YOU
SHOW TOWARDS
US IS NEVER LOST
ON THE GROUP.

ALEX
CODLING
I would like to start my first programme notes since taking over
as head coach by thanking everyone associated with Newcastle
Falcons for the welcome I have received since arriving in the
North East.
This is an incredible part of the world, and the reception given
to me by our supporters, staff and wider rugby community has
been fantastic as we look forward with real positivity to the
season ahead.
Our travelling supporters at Bath last weekend were magnificent
in the way they got behind the team, and our games at
Kingston Park so far have also seen a tremendous atmosphere.
The passion and commitment you show towards us is never lost
on the group, and for those of you attending this evening’s visit
of Gloucester I would like to extend my personal thanks.
We came into last weekend’s Gallagher Premiership opener at
Bath after winning four of our five games in the Premiership
Rugby Cup, and as disappointing as our defeat at Leicester Tigers
was, we showed plenty over the duration of the cup campaign,
including a fantastic home win over Sale Sharks.
The Premiership Rugby Cup afforded us the opportunity to give
game time to a host of our promising young players and has
been really useful from a preparation point of view, with our
squad containing a host of new players and coaches.
One such player was our full-back Ben Redshaw, and I was delighted
to select him for his Premiership debut last Saturday at
Bath at the age of only 18. Players like Ben are the future of this
club, and as the saying goes – if you’re good enough, you’re old
enough.
We fielded a starting 15 of which 10 came through our own
academy, and despite the obvious disappointment of losing the
game by eight
points I was really happy with the ambition and courage shown
by the boys.
Our commitment to backing our skills is something we will look
to show throughout the whole of the season, and if it’s on I want
us to play. We have to remember we’re in the entertainment
business, and whilst we obviously have to align that with a certain
degree of pragmatism we want to enthuse our supporters
and get them out of their seats.
I can promise you our players, coaches and support staff are
working incredibly hard in trying to pull it all together, and we’re
looking forward to a fantastic test tonight against a Gloucester
side who edged a close one against Harlequins last weekend.
I would like welcome Gloucester, their head coach George Skivington,
his staff and their supporters to Kingston Park for this
fixture, which is shaping up to be a good one.
Away from the club, it was great to see our Pumas contingent
helping Argentina make it to the semi-finals of the Rugby World
Cup, defeating Wales last Saturday.
With my club hat on it would obviously be great to have quality
players like Mateo Carreras, Matias Moroni, Pedro Rubiolo
and Eduardo Bello available to us, but I know they take a huge
amount of pride in representing their countries and I’m delighted
that they have this massive opportunity.
I hope a lot of our supporters will stay on and watch their game
against New Zealand at 8pm in the stadium bars, and as a proud
Englishman I also hope England can pull off what would be a
huge result against the world champions, South Africa, the following
night.
Once again thank you for your continued support, and I hope you
enjoy this evening’s game.
CODDERS
ALEX CODLING - HEAD COACH’S NOTES
5

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9

MEET THE
NEW BOYS
A busy summer has seen Newcastle Falcons recruiting 16 new
players into the senior squad. Here, we give you the lowdown
on the Kingston Park influx.

JOSH
BAINBRIDGE
EDUARDO
BELLO
27
BACK ROW
Arriving from Coventry, the open-side was raised in the North
East and played his junior rugby with Middlesbrough and
Guisborough, earning England honours at Under-17s, 18s, 19s
and 20s levels.
His professional career has seen him starring for Leeds,
Jersey and Coventry, where he made 45 appearances before
stepping up to the top flight.
27
PROP
Argentina prop Eduardo joins from Saracens with the Pumas
tight-head helping them win the Gallagher Premiership title
during his one and only season at the club, having spent the
previous five years with Italian URC club, Zebre.
Bello made his Argentina debut against Australia in October
2020, and during the 2022-23 season he was part of the
Pumas team which beat the All Blacks in New Zealand and
England at Twickenham before joining their Rugby World Cup
squad.
LOUIS
BROWN
BRYAN
BYRNE
25
FULL-BACK
30
HOOKER
Louis (pronounced Lew-ee) joined Newcastle Falcons from
Championship side, Coventry. The full-back began his
career in rugby league where he played for Featherstone
Rovers, switching to union with Leeds, where he earned a
senior academy contract and played for England Counties
Under-18s.
Spending six months with Old Elthamians in National One
following Leeds’ financial problems, Brown was snapped up
by Coventry, where he excelled. Earning a reputation for his
elusive running and big left boot, he appeared 45 times in his
three seasons there, the last of which saw them finishing
third in the Championship table.
Bryan arrived from Bristol Bears, where he played 44 games
and scored 12 tries in his three and a half seasons. Born and
raised in Ireland, where he played international rugby at
Under-18s, 19s and 20s levels, he came through the academy
system at Leinster.
Going on to play for the Dublin-based province at senior level,
the hooker played 47 times in his five and a half seasons
there, during which time they won the Pro 14 title, Heineken
Champions Cup and British & Irish Cup.
MEET THE NEW BOYS
11

TIM
CARDALL
SAM
CROSS
26
LOCK
Joining from Australian Super Rugby side, Melbourne Rebels,
The Englishman was in Northampton Saints’ academy and has
represented his country at Under-18s and Students levels.
Studying a sports science and coaching degree at Nottingham
Trent University, he played club rugby for Nottingham for
two years before earning a move to Wasps, where he spent
four seasons before the club’s financial problems saw them
removed from the Premiership.
31
BACK ROW
Sam heads north from Ospreys. A Welsh international at both
15s and 7s, the Brynmawr native has played over 100 games
for the Wales 7s team and was part of the GB 7s squad which
won a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
The versatile back-rower played more than 70 games for
Ospreys and has two Welsh caps, having played against
Georgia and Australia in 2017.
Playing for the Barbarians in the autumn of 2022, he moved
to Australia and spent the 2023 Super Rugby season with
Melbourne Rebels before returning to England with Newcastle
Falcons.
JAMES
ELLIOTT
JOHN
HAWKINS
25
SCRUM-HALF
26
LOCK
James returns for a second spell at Newcastle Falcons,
with the Jersey Reds scrum-half signing until the end of the
current season. The Co. Durham native helped Jersey win
the RFU Championship title last season and started for the
Channel Island last month when they won away at Bath in the
Premiership Rugby Cup.
Elliott, 25, studied at Leeds Beckett University and was in the
Falcons’ senior academy - the England Students international
going on to play for Yorkshire Carnegie before spending the
last three seasons with Jersey.
Englishman John joins until the end of the 2024-25 season,
having signed for RFU Championship winners Jersey in the
summer.
Standing at 1.96m (6 foot 5) and weighing 117kg (18 stone
6), Hawkins previously played with Bristol Bears, for whom
he made 47 first-team appearances, having come through
Northampton Saints’ academy.
MEET THE NEW BOYS
13

CAMERON
HUTCHISON
RORY
JENNINGS
25
CENTRE
Cameron has come over the border from Edinburgh. Born in
Birmingham, he moved to Scotland at the age of two when
his family relocated to the coastal town of North Berwick.
Representing Scotland at Under-18s, 19s and 20s levels, he
spent a season at French club Stade Nicois before returning
to Scottish rugby with Edinburgh.
Making his senior debut for the capital club in 2021, he made
a total of 21 appearances, with the hard-running midfield
man scoring a decisive try in the Heineken Champions Cup
win at French club Castres in January 2023.
27
FLY-HALF/CENTRE
A summer recruit from London Irish, Rory was a product of
the Bath academy, playing five Premiership games for the
West Country club before moving to Coventry, where he was
joint top-scorer during the 2020-21 season.
A former England Under-20s international who represented
his country in the 2015 Junior World Championship final,
Jennings moved to French giants Clermont for the 2021-22
season before shining at London Irish.
JOHN
KELLY
OLLIE
LEATHERBARROW
MEET THE ENW BOYS
28
LOCK/BACK ROW
Arriving from Doncaster Knights and able to play in the back
row or second row, John’s rugby journey began in earnest
at Lucton School in Herefordshire, having moved around
previously due to his military upbringing.
Playing for the Luctonians club, he made more than 50
appearances for them before moving to Plymouth Albion, also
reaching the half-century with the Devon club before signing
for Doncaster in 2020. Kelly spent three seasons with the
Yorkshire club, earning a place in the 2022-23 Championship
Team of the Season for his hard hitting in both attack and
defence.
21
BACK ROW
Ollie joined Newcastle Falcons from Exeter Chiefs, the back-row
forward won back-to-back BUCS Super Rugby titles with Exeter
University in 2022 and 2023, captaining them in the second
season as he completed his economics degree. Raised in
Macclesfield, he began his rugby journey with Knutsford RFC
and joined Sale Sharks’ academy, where he captained their
Under-18s team before moving to study at Exeter.
Qualifying for Scotland due to his grandmother being from
Perth, he represented the Scots at Under-16s and 20s levels,
with the 18s programme being scrapped due to the Covid
pandemic. During his time studying in Devon Ollie signed professional
terms with Exeter Chiefs, spending two seasons there
before heading to Newcastle.
14

MURRAY
MCCALLUM
KIRAN
MCDONALD
27
PROP
Joining from Edinburgh and able to operate on both sides
of the scrum, McCallum played more than 50 times for
Edinburgh before joining Glasgow on a short-term deal in
the summer of 2021. Heading south to Worcester Warriors
in January 2022, he was among the many left without a club
following Worcester’s expulsion from the Premiership in the
autumn of 2022.
Touring with the Barbarians, he then re-signed for Edinburgh
for the back half of the 2022-23, during which time he scored
a try away to Scarlets before making the move to Tyneside.
McCallum made his Scotland debut against Wales in 2018 and
has three test caps to his name.
28
LOCK
The lock-forward played more than 50 games for Glasgow
Warriors before moving to Wasps in the summer of 2022.
Called up by Scotland for their summer tour in 2021 only to
see all three games cancelled due to Covid, he started all four
games for Wasps in September 2022 before the club were
expelled from the Premiership due to financial issues.
Touring with the Barbarians that autumn, he joined Munster
on a short-term deal and was part of the starting XV for the
Irish province when they beat world champions South Africa
in front of a 50,000 sell-out crowd.
HUGH
O’SULLIVAN
MICHAEL
VAN VUUREN
25
SCRUM-HALF
32
HOOKER
Raised in Meath in a family of talented hurlers and Gaelic
football players, Hugh focused on rugby where he won double
Leinster Schools Cups with Belvedere College. Going through
the Leinster academy system, he made 34 senior appearances
for the province over three seasons before moving to
England in 2021.
Capped by Ireland Under-18s and 20s, his two seasons at
London Irish saw him making 20 first-team appearances for
the Exiles, where his zippy running and speed of pass marked
him out as a future Falcon.
Michael van Vuuren signed from South African side, Emirates
Lions towards the tail end of the summer. The vastly-experienced
front-rower boasts Premiership experience from his
time playing at Bath, Northampton Saints, Leicester Tigers
and Wasps.
Representing Free State Cheetahs and Eastern Province Kings
in his native South Africa, the English-qualified forward has
also been with Stade Francais in the French Top14 and Ealing
Trailfinders in the English Championship.
MEET THE NEW BOYS
15

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COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY NEWS
CAST AND HITZ JOIN FORCES
The Cast volunteer group are key to all Falcons match days,
and now even more students from the HITZ programme are
joining to support.
With the help of over 50 dedicated volunteers, the Cast has
grown significantly over the years, offering crucial support for
match-day operations. From wayfinding to ticket scanning, the
Cast plays a huge role in enhancing the spectator experience.
What makes the Cast truly special, however, is its inclusive environment.
It provides a supportive space for volunteers facing
various challenges, including anxiety, lack of confidence, disabilities
and loneliness. The Cast is more than just a group of
volunteers; it is a family that cares for one another.
18

Also offering their support at match days are students who
are currently studying on the HITZ programme at Newcastle
College.
The HITZ programme is Newcastle Rugby Foundation’s employability
and enrichment programme which looks to support young
people in the region in getting employment ready. The students
on the course have generously dedicated their free time to help
with various match-day operations at Newcastle Falcons home
games.
David Shotton, social inclusion manager, said: “The Cast has
been amazing in supporting students from the HITZ programme.
“They have been incredibly welcoming to students joining the
group, showing them that the role of volunteers can be key to
the off-field successes of elite-level sporting organisations and
the local community.
“The students have scanned match tickets, sold flutter tickets,
and helped supporters around the ground. The benefits of volunteering
with the Cast have included increased confidence,
better social interactions, and strong engagement with their
local community.”
For more information about the Cast volunteer group and the
HITZ programme, please email falconscommunity@newcastle-falcons.co.uk.
“The Cast has been amazing
in supporting students from
the HITZ programme.”
DAVID SHOTTON
SOCIAL INCLUSION MANAGER
COMMUNITY NEWS
19

CHARITY SHIRT LAUNCH
On October 8 Newcastle Rugby Foundation had an actionpacked
community day which included a festival, a fun fair,
dancers, a parade, face painters and the new charity shirt
launch!
was well co-ordinated and featured a variety of talents, including
dancing and acrobatics. Additionally, as part of the entertainment,
a T-shirt cannon was used to launch t-shirts into the
stands, creating an exciting and fun atmosphere.
The highlight of the day was the eagerly awaited launch of a
new charity shirt.
COMMUNITY NEWS
The U9 and U10 festival was almost record-breaking with 900
players attending from 29 clubs from across the North East.
They even got to meet some of the Falcons players, getting
their autographs and taking selfies.
However, the festivities didn’t stop at the rugby field. Besides
the exhilarating match against Caldy there was a range of activities
for fans and attendees of the festival that kept everyone
entertained.
There was a brand-new fan zone and a pre-match parade for all
participants of the festival. During the half-time, students from
Newcastle College put on an impressive show. The performance
The shirt is designed to support the Newcastle Rugby Foundation,
with £5 from every purchase being donated to the charity.
The Newcastle Rugby Foundation work with 15,000+ people in
the North East and Cumbria in some of the most deprived communities
to activate positive change.
If you’re interested in getting your hands on the new charity
shirt, there’s still time to make a purchase. However, it’s worth
noting that the shirts are in limited supply, so it’s best to act
fast to avoid missing out. You can purchase one by heading to
our website or on-site store.
20

PREMIERSHIP RUGBY
CHAMPIONS
Premiership Rugby Champions is an interactive resource for
primary schools, delivered through the Premiership Rugby
Digital App, providing digital lesson plans and resources to
schools across the country.
Within the programme, there are three strands: Tackling Health,
Tackling Numeracy and Tackling Character.
Tackling Health aims to take a holistic approach to educating
pupils about their own health, wellbeing and how to lead a
healthy lifestyle.
Tackling Numeracy is an engaging rugby-themed numeracy
programme. Aimed at Key Stage 2 children it delivers maths in a
fun and unique way, utilising rugby-themed content to connect
real-life experiences.
Tackling Character is a five-lesson engaging rugby-themed
values programme. It aims to develop positive character traits
through both classroom and practical activities, working on the
rugby values of respect, teamwork, discipline, enjoyment, and
sportsmanship.
JUNIOR FALCONS HALLOWEEN
PARTY
We are excited to announce our Junior Falcons Halloween party
which will be held ahead of the Northampton Saints fixture on
Sunday October 29.
There will be plenty of Halloween-themed games and activities
included at the party as well as the opportunity to participate in
a ‘Junior Falcons v Players’ competition.
If you are not a Junior Falcon member yet, sign up today. Memberships
are FREE!
COMMUNITY NEWS
21

COMMUNITY NEWS
22

MEET THE
SENIOR ACADEMY
NEW BOYS
Newcastle Falcons’ senior academy
welcomes a five-man intake this season,
with the following local talents all signed up.
FINN
BAKER
19
LOCK
Originally from Harrogate, the England Under-18s international
is an intelligent line-out specialist who has come through
Sedbergh School.
ISAAC
KELLER
JACOB
OLIVER
18
PROP
Born in Bielefeld, Germany, Isaac attended school in Ponteland
before joining the Falcons’ ACE programme at Gosforth
Academy. A big ball-carrier who is known for his speed and
skill, he was part of the England team which defeated Ireland
U18s in Dublin in the spring of 2023.
18
HOOKER
The former Barnard Castle Schoolboy captained the Falcons’
Under-18s team and joins on a one-year deal, with the England
Under-18s international renowned for his ball-carrying
and contact work.
BEN
REDSHAW
18
FULL-BACK/CENTRE
Born and raised in Leeds, the former Sedbergh Schoolboy can
play at centre or full-back, and captained England Under-18s
to an emphatic victory over Ireland Under-18s in Dublin in the
spring of 2023. Going on to play a year young for England Under-19s
the same season, Redshaw is known for his balanced
running, pace and evasion skills.
ADAM
SCOTT
21
LOCK
Adam joined Newcastle Falcons’ senior academy in the
summer having graduated from Newcastle University, where
he was a regular in their BUCS Super Rugby team. Hailing from
Walbottle in Northumberland and playing his junior rugby with
Northern FC, Adam is renowned for his athleticism and skill.
MEET THE ACADEMY NEW BOYS
23

PREMIERSHIP RUGBY
CUP ROUND-UP
Newcastle Falcons ended their Premiership Rugby Cup campaign with four wins from
five after an entertaining group phase.
Missing out by just a single point to eventual pool winners Leicester Tigers, the Falcons
scored an average of 32 points per game, beating Ampthill, Bedford Blues, Sale Sharks
and Caldy, and losing only to the Tigers.
Tom Penny leading out the side
17
40
Newcastle Falcons broke
new ground on September 9
with their first trip to Dillingham
Park, with their walk
through the Bedfordshire
woods delivering a six-try
triumph to kick off the Cup
campaign.
The men in green led 12-7
after a nip-and-tuck opening
half, with Ben Stevenson and
Freddie Lockwood crossing
the try-line.
A brace for Iwan Stephens
after the break was added
to by scores from debutant
Kiran McDonald and flanker
Guy Pepper, who scores
with his first touch after
nine months out with a foot
injury.

26
16
Newcastle had to dig deep
to record maximum points
in their first home game of
the season on September
15, having trailed with 20
minutes to go.
The Falcons scored their
first try when hooker Ollie
Fletcher was driven over
from a maul in the left
corner, and they led 12-3 at
half-time when Zach Kerr
scored from a one-two down
the right with
Adam Radwan.
Bedford nipped in front
going into the closing
quarter, with Newcastle
regaining the lead when
Sebastian de Chaves
ploughed over from a closerange
short-side ruck.
Radwan added the gloss
with a predator’s try from a
kick ahead down the right,
earning his side the four-try
bonus point in the process.
Matias Orlando in action against Bedford

23
10
The performance of the
group phase arrived on
September 22 when Newcastle
convincingly dispatched their
northern Premiership rivals.
Well worth their 17-0 half-time
advantage, the Falcons went
ahead when Adam Radwan
scored a sensational solo try
from 50 metres out, stepping
through the defensive line and
racing towards the left corner
on a diagonal course.
Radwan was at the heart of a
penalty try as the home side
doubled their advantage,
chipping and chasing down the
right before referee Sara Cox
awarded a penalty try after
Hugh O’Sullivan’s delightful
floated pass had unlocked the
Sharks’ defence.
Brett Connon’s simple penalty
brought up the 17-point halftime
lead, with the fly-half
kicking three penalties on the
night.
Sale’s solitary try was a late
effort from replacement
prop Tumy Onasanya, but the
Falcons were good value for
their result.
Adam Radwan opened the scoring against Sale

60
07
Newcastle were well and
truly brought back down
to Earth on September 30
when a chastening opening
half had them 39-0 down,
the Tigers’ forward power
proving too much for the
travelling Falcons.
Skipper Hanro Liebenberg
was first over for the hosts
as the skipper scored an
unconverted try- one of ten
Leicester touchdowns on
the day.
Hooker Charlie Clare and
scrum-half Joe Powell
helped themselves to two
apiece, with one each for
Guy Porter, Francois van
Wyk, Matt Rogerson and Tom
Whiteley.
A much-improved
second-half performance
from Newcastle at least
disrupted the frequency
of the Leicester scoring –
Jamie Blamire marking his
comeback with a try from a
maul in the right corner.
Newcastle went into their
final group game on October
8 knowing that semi-final
qualification was beyond
them, but nonetheless ran in
ten tries as a much-changed
line-up dispatched Caldy.
Leading 26-8 at the break
and more than doubling their
tally during the second half,
the scoring got underway
just 92 seconds in when
Iwan Stephens grabbed the
first of his two tries.
Scrum-half Ben Douglas
marked his first start with
a try in the left corner, with
tries from hooker Michael
van Vuuren and fit-again
George Wacokecoke
ensuring the hosts had the
bonus point wrapped up
before the interval.
Six more tries followed,
with full-back Louis Brown
running in two of them.
Debutant Max Pepper added
his name to the score sheet
as did hooker Ollie Fletcher,
while fly-half Louie Johnson
scored a try and eight
conversion for a 21-point
personal haul.
66
13
Iwan Stephens scored two of Newcastle’s ten tries

WELCOME TO THE
TRUE NORTH
NEWCASTLE FALCONS 2023 - 24
FIRST TEAM
PLAYERS
1. 1. 1.
1.
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM PLAYERS
JOSH
BAINBRIDGE
JOSH
BARTON
EDUARDO
BELLO
JAMIE
BLAMIRE
BACK ROW
SCRUM-HALF
PROP
HOOKER
BORN: 17/04/96 BORN: 15/12/97 BORN: 27/11/95
BORN: 22/12/97
HEIGHT: 1.83M (6 FT) HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
HEIGHT: 1.90M (6FT 2)
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 103KG (16 ST 3) WEIGHT: 85KG (13ST 5) WEIGHT: 120KG (18ST 12)
WEIGHT: 112KG (17ST 8)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20S HONOURS: ARGENTINA HONOURS: ENGLAND
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
28

1.
1.
1.
1.
PHIL
BRANTINGHAM
PROP
BORN: 02/10/01
HEIGHT: 1.83M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 117KG (18ST 5)
SPONSORED BY
ADAM
BROCKLEBANK
PROP
BORN: 06/09/95
HEIGHT: 1.88M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 125KG (19ST 9)
HONOURS: ENGLAND STUDENTS
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
LOUIS
BROWN
FULL-BACK
BORN: 17/02/98
HEIGHT: 1.87M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 91KG (14ST 5)
HONOURS: ENGLAND
COUNTIES U18
SPONSORED BY
BRYAN
BYRNE
HOOKER
BORN: 09/09/93
HEIGHT: 1.78M (5FT 10)
WEIGHT: 104KG (16ST 5)
HONOURS: IRELAND U20
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
1.
1.
1.
1.
TIM
CARDALL
LOCK
BORN: 13/01/97
HEIGHT: 1.98M (6FT 6)
WEIGHT: 121KG (19ST)
HONOURS: ENGLAND STUDENTS
SPONSORED BY
MATEO
CARRERAS
WING
BORN: 17/12/99
HEIGHT: 1.73M (5FT 7)
WEIGHT: 84KG (13ST 3)
HONOURS: ARGENTINA
SPONSORED BY
CALLUM
CHICK
BACK ROW
BORN: 25/11/96
HEIGHT: 1.93M (6FT 3)
WEIGHT: 115KG (18ST 1)
HONOURS: ENGLAND
SPONSORED BY
Geoff & Marie
Penrice
BRETT
CONNON
FLY-HALF
BORN: 29/08/96
HEIGHT: 1.76M (5FT 8)
WEIGHT: 89KG (14ST)
HONOURS: IRELAND U20
SPONSORED BY
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM PLAYERS
29

1.
1. 1.
1.
SAM
CROSS
BACK ROW
BORN: 28/8/92
HEIGHT: 1.90M (6FT 2)
WEIGHT: 100KG(15ST 10)
HONOURS: WALES
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SEBASTIAN
DE CHAVES
SPONSORED BY
JAMES
ELLIOTT
JOHN
HAWKINS
LOCK
SCRUM-HALF
LOCK
BORN: 30/10/90 BORN: 29/08/98
BORN: 11/11/96
HEIGHT: 2.02M (6FT 6) HEIGHT: 1.77M (5FT 10)
HEIGHT: 1.95M (6FT 5)
WEIGHT: 117KG (18ST 5) WEIGHT: 82KG (12ST 13)
WEIGHT: 117KG (18ST 6)
HONOURS: SOUTH AFRICA U20 HONOURS: ENGLAND STUDENTS
Jacksons Law
Firm
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
1.
1. 1.
1.
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM PLAYERS
OLLIE
LEATHERBARROW
BACK ROW
BORN: 08/04/02
HEIGHT: 1.84M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 105KG (16ST 7)
HONOURS: SCOTLAND U20
SPONSORED BY
RORY
JENNINGS
JONH
KELLY
ZACH
KERR
FLY-HALF/CENTRE
LOCK/BACK ROW
CENTRE/WING
BORN: 24/12/95 BORN: 11/10/95
BORN: 13/12/99
HEIGHT: 1.76M (5FT 8) HEIGHT: 1.93M (6FT 4)
HEIGHT: 1.80M (5FT 9)
WEIGHT: 84KG (13ST 3) WEIGHT: 120KG (18ST 12)
WEIGHT: 93KG (14ST 9)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20S
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
30

1.
1.
1.
1.
CAMERON
HUTCHISON
CENTRE
BORN: 01/06/98
HEIGHT: 1.82M (6 FT)
WEIGHT: 102KG (16 ST 1)
HONOURS: SCOTLAND U20
FREDDIE
LOCKWOOD
BACK ROW
BORN: 31/12/00
HEIGHT: 1.88M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 116KG (18ST 3)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U19
CHARLIE
MADDISON
HOOKER
BORN: 24/06/91
HEIGHT: 1.88M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 109KG (17ST 2)
MURRAY
MCCALLUM
PROP
BORN: 16/03/96
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 126KG (19ST 12)
HONOURS: IRELAND U20
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SPONSORED BY
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SPONSORED BY
The Business
Agility Coach
1.
1.
1.
1.
KIRAN
MCDONALD
LOCK
BORN: 01/11/94
HEIGHT: 2.02M (6FT 7)
WEIGHT: 116KG (18ST 4)
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
MATIAS
MORONI
CENTRE
BORN: 10/07/91
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 92KG (14ST 6)
HONOURS: ARGENTINA
SPONSORED BY
ELLIOTT
OBATOYINBO
FULL-BACK
BORN: 09/10/98
HEIGHT: 1.86M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 89KG (14ST)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20
SPONSORED BY
MATIAS
ORLANDO
CENTRE
BORN: 14/11/91
HEIGHT: 1.83M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 94KG (14ST 11)
HONOURS: ARGENTINA
SPONSORED BY
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM PLAYERS
31

1.
1. 1.
1.
HUGH
O’SULLIVAN
SCRUM-HALF
BORN: 24/2/98
HEIGHT: 1.78M (5FT 9)
WEIGHT: 84KG (13ST 3)
HONOURS: IRELAND U20
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
RICHARD
PALFRAMAN
TOM
PENNY
SPONSORED BY
GUY
PEPPER
PROP
FULL-BACK
BACK ROW
BORN: 20/12/93 BORN: 13/10/94
BORN: 15/04/03
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT 1) HEIGHT: 1.79M (5FT 9)
HEIGHT: 1.90M (6FT 2)
WEIGHT: 120KG (18ST 13) WEIGHT: 87KG (13ST 9)
WEIGHT: 105KG (16ST 7)
HONOURS: ENGLAND STUDENTS HONOURS: ENGLAND U18
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SPONSORED BY
1.
1. 1.
1.
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM STAFF
32
VEREIMI
QOROWALE
WING/CENTRE
BORN: 27/01/95
HEIGHT: 1.86M (5FT 11)
WEIGHT: 102KG (16 ST 1)
HONOURS: BRITISH ARMY
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
ADAM
RADWAN
SPONSORED BY
PEDRO
RUBIOLO
SPONSORED BY
IWAN
STEPHENS
WING
BACK ROW/LOCK
WING
BORN: 30/12/97 BORN: 21/12/02
BORN: 24/03/02
HEIGHT: 1.79M (5FT 9) HEIGHT: 1.91M (6FT 2)
HEIGHT: 1.70M (5FT 6)
WEIGHT: 89KG (14ST)
WEIGHT: 114KG (17ST 13)
WEIGHT: 83KG (13ST)
HONOURS: ENGLAND
HONOURS: ARGENTINA
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20
The
Blackbirds
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR

1.
1.
1.
1.
BEN
STEVENSON
WING/CENTRE
BORN: 19/7/98
HEIGHT: 1.89M (6FT 2)
WEIGHT: 99KG (15ST 8)
HONOURS: ENGLAND STUDENTS
SAM
STUART
SCRUM-HALF
BORN: 27/09/91
HEIGHT: 1.73M (5FT 7)
WEIGHT: 83KG (13ST)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20
MARK
TAMPIN
PROP
BORN: 20/01/92
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 122KG (19ST 2)
JOSH
THOMAS
FLY-HALF
BORN: 30/06/00
HEIGHT: 1.78M (5FT 8)
WEIGHT: 82KG (12ST 12)
HONOURS: WALES U20
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
1.
1.
1.
PHILIP
VAN DER WALT
LOCK
BORN: 14/07/89
HEIGHT: 1.93M (6FT 3)
WEIGHT: 112KG (17ST 9)
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
MICHAEL
VAN VUUREN
HOOKER
BORN: 28/09/91
HEIGHT: 1.87M (6FT 1)
WEIGHT: 106KG (16ST 10)
HONOURS: SOUTH AFRICA U20
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
GEORGE
WACOKECOKE
CENTRE
BORN: 23/10/95
HEIGHT: 1.80M (5FT 9)
WEIGHT: 94KG (14ST 11)
HONOURS: ENGLAND STUDENTS
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM STAFF
33

NEWCASTLE FALCONS 2023 - 24
FIRST TEAM
STAFF
1. 1. 1.
1.
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM STAFF
ALEX
CODLING
HEAD COACH
MICKY
WARD
COACH
MARK
LAYCOCK
COACH
SCOTT
BALDWIN
COACH
34

1. 1. 1.
1.
JOHN
STOKOE
TEAM MANAGER
STEVE
BREMNER
PERFORMANCE ANALYST
MATT
HODKINSON
PERFORMANCE ANALYST
KEVIN
MCSHANE
HEAD OF ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE
1. 1. 1.
1.
LEWIS
WILLIAMS
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH
SHAUN
MCLAREN
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH
RHYS
GRIFFITHS
HEAD PHYSIO
ANDY
SHEA
PHYSIO
1. 1. 1.
1.
DERMOT
AUSTIN
PHYSIO
RACHEL
SCURFIELD
LEAD DOCTOR
DEAN
SHIPSEY
MATCH-DAY DOCTOR
1. 1. 1.
1.
MATT
GLOVER
KIT CO-ORDINATOR
ALAN
BASKERVILLE
KIT CO-ORDINATOR
ANDREW
CRUICKSHANK
PSYCHOLOGIST
ANDY
RAMSHAW
MATCH-DAY DOCTOR
LINDSAY
MCNAUGHTON
PERFORMANCE NUTRITIONIST
SQUAD 2023-24 - FIRST TEAM STAFF
35

WELCOME TO THE
TRUE NORTH
NEWCASTLE FALCONS 2023 -24
SENIOR
ACADEMY
1. 1. 1.
1.
SQUAD 2023-24 - SENIOR ACADEMY PLAYERS
FINN
BAKER
SAM
CALRK
LUKE
COULSTON
LOCK PROP LOCK
BORN: 17/10/04 BORN: 31/1/04 BORN: 17/07/04
HEIGHT: 2.01M (6FT 7) HEIGHT: 1.84M (6FT) HEIGHT: 2M (6FT 6)
WEIGHT: 100KG (15ST 10) WEIGHT: 120KG (18ST 13) WEIGHT: 95KG (14ST 13)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U18
HONOURS: ENGLAND U18
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
MARK
DORMER
PROP
BORN: 16/09/02
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 110KG (17ST 4)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
36

1. 1.
1.
1.
BEN
DOUGLAS
SPONSORED BY
OLLIE
FLETCHER
NATHAN
GREENWOOD
SCRUM-HALF
HOOKER
WING
BORN: 16/01/04 BORN: 09/09/02
BORN: 20/11/03
HEIGHT: 1.77M (5FT 8) HEIGHT: 1.83M (6FT)
HEIGHT: 1.75M (5FT 7)
WEIGHT: 75KG (11ST 11) WEIGHT: 106KG (16ST 9)
WEIGHT: 77KG (12ST 1)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U19
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20
HONOURS: GREAT BRITAIN 7S
JOAN MILNE
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
LOUIE
JOHNSON
FLY-HALF
BORN: 13/06/03
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 93KG (14ST 9)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U20
SPONSORED BY
1. 1.
1.
1.
ISAAC
KELLER
JACOB
OLIVER
SPONSORED BY
BEN
REDSHAW
PROP
HOOKER
CENTRE/FULL-BACK
BORN: 30/03/05 BORN: 15/3/05
BORN: 10/1/05
HEIGHT: 1.84M (6FT)
HEIGHT: 1.77M (5FT 10)
HEIGHT: 1.85M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 114KG (17ST 13) WEIGHT: 95KG (14ST 13)
WEIGHT: 80KG (12ST 8)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U18
HONOURS: ENGLAND U18
HONOURS: ENGLAND U19
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SPONSORED BY
Hodgkinson &
Lawson
MIKE
REWCASTLE
PROP
BORN: 17/05/04
HEIGHT: 1.84M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 113KG (17ST 11)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U18
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SQUAD 2023-24 - SENIOR ACADEMY PLAYERS
37

1. 1.
1.
ADAM
SCOTT
OLIVER
SPENCER
MARCUS
TIFFEN
LOCK
FULL-BACK
BACK ROW
BORN: 27/11/01 BORN: 22/2/04
BORN: 03/09/02
HEIGHT: 1.99M (6FT 6)
HEIGHT: 1.84M (6FT)
HEIGHT: 1.84M (6FT)
WEIGHT: 110KG (17ST 4) WEIGHT: 94KG (14ST 11)
WEIGHT: 100KG (15ST 10)
HONOURS: ENGLAND U17
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
AVAILABLE TO
SPONSOR
SQUAD 2023-24 - SENIOR ACADEMY PLAYERS + ACADEMY STAFF
38
STAFF
1. 1. 1.
1.
ACADEMY
JAMES
PONTON
HEAD OF ACADEMY
NEWCASTLE FALCONS 2023 -24
TOM
WILLIAMS
TRANSITION COACH
PJ
BUTLER
ACADEMY COACH
JACK
HAYES
ACADEMY COACH

1. 1. 1.
1.
KEITH
ROBINSON
ACADEMY DPP MANAGER
NICK
TODD
ACADEMY PERFORMANCE
MANAGER
MICHAEL
FERGUSON
SENIOR ACADEMY STRENGTH
& CONDITIONING COACH
JOE
MARTIN
JUNIOR ACADEMY ATHLETIC
DEVELOPMENT COACH
1. 1.
1.
CATHERINE
BOAL
ACADEMY PHYSIO
JAKE
GRIFFIN
ACADEMY PHYSIO
CHERYL
ABDUL
ACADEMY ADMINISTRATOR
BE PART OF THE TEAM
TO SPONSOR A PLAYER, EMAIL
corporatesales@newcastle-falcons.co.uk
0191 214 2892
SQUAD 2023-24 - ACADEMY STAFF
39

PLAYER STATS
Name
Falcons
career
apps
Falcons
career
points
Falcons
career
tries
Season
2023-24
apps
Season
2023-24
points
Season
2023-24
tries
Name
Falcons
career
apps
Falcons
career
points
Falcons
career
tries
Season
2023-24
apps
Season
2023-24
points
Season
2023-24
tries
Josh Bainbridge 1 0 0 3 0 0 Freddie Lockwood 30 10 2 5 5 1
Finn Baker 1 0 0 1 0 0 Charlie Maddison 27 5 1 0 0 0
Josh Barton 11 10 2 2 0 0 Murray McCallum 4 0 0 4 0 0
Eduardo Bello 0 0 0 0 0 0 Kiran McDonald 4 5 1 4 5 1
Jamie Blamire 91 110 22 2 10 2 Matias Moroni 15 5 1 0 0 0
Phil Brantingham 13 0 0 5 0 0 Elliott Obatoyinbo 21 15 3 3 0 0
Adam Brocklebank 105 0 0 6 0 0 Jacob Oliver 0 0 0 0 0 0
Louis Brown 2 10 2 2 10 2 Matias Orlando 39 20 4 4 5 1
Bryan Byrne 1 0 0 1 0 0 Hugh O'Sullivan 4 0 0 4 0 0
Tim Cardall 4 0 0 4 0 0 Richard Palframan 31 0 0 3 0 0
Mateo Carreras 36 80 16 0 0 0 Tom Penny 90 50 10 4 0 0
Callum Chick 128 95 19 3 0 0 Guy Pepper 12 20 4 5 5 1
Sam Clark 1 0 0 1 0 0 Max Pepper 1 5 1 1 5 1
Brett Connon 92 454 2 4 34 0 Vereimi Qorowale 2 5 1 0 0 0
Luke Coulston 1 0 0 0 0 0 Adam Radwan 98 255 51 4 10 2
Sam Cross 3 0 0 3 0 0 Ben Redshaw 3 0 0 3 0 0
Sebastien de Chaves 44 5 1 5 5 1 Mike Rewcastle 0 0 0 0 0 0
Mark Dormer 4 0 0 1 0 0 Pedro Rubiolo 8 5 1 0 0 0
Ben Douglas 5 5 1 2 5 1 Adam Scott 0 0 0 0 0 0
James Elliott 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oliver Spencer 1 0 0 1 0 0
Ollie Fletcher 12 15 3 4 10 2 Iwan Stephens 15 40 8 3 20 4
Nathan Greenwood 1 5 1 0 0 0 Ben Stevenson 70 90 20 4 10 2
John Hawkins 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sam Stuart 86 40 8 4 0 0
Cameron Hutchison 3 0 0 3 0 0 Mark Tampin 78 0 0 4 0 0
Rory Jennings 1 0 0 1 0 0 Corbin Thunder 0 0 0 0 0 0
Louie Johnson 8 33 1 4 25 1 Josh Thomas 12 19 0 3 2 0
Isaac Keller 0 0 0 0 0 0 Marcus Tiffen 9 10 2 2 0 0
John Kelly 4 0 0 4 0 0 Philip van der Walt 43 15 3 2 0 0
Zach Kerr 14 15 3 3 5 1 Michael van Vuuren 5 5 1 5 5 1
Ollie Leatherbarrow 2 0 0 2 0 0 George Wacokecoke 65 85 17 1 5 1
PLAYER STATS
41

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CLUB
NEWS
Stay on after Newcastle Falcons’ game
to watch our Argentinian contingent in
Rugby World Cup semi-final action.
Los Pumas take on New Zealand’s All
Blacks in an 8pm kick-off, with the
game being shown in Kingston Park’s
Stadium bars.
Pedro Rubiolo (left) and Eduardo Bello
The Argentina squad – or should that
be Argentoona? – has a distinct Geordie
flavour, with four Falcons players currently
playing for them out in France.
Winger Mateo Carreras has been the
headline-grabber following his hat-trick
in their final pool game against Japan,
but it was centre Matias Moroni who
saved the day with a miraculous tackle
in last weekend’s quarter-final victory
over Wales.
Prop Eduardo Bello came on as a second-half
replacement in a famous
victory, while back-five forward Pedro
Rubiolo has also featured during the
competition for head coach Michael
Cheika’s men.
Their semi-final tussle with the All
Blacks gets underway at 8pm, making
it ideal timing for supporters to stay on
and take in all the action on TV in the
stadium bars.
PLAYER STATS
Matias Moroni
Mateo Carreras jumps into the arms
of club-mate Matias Moroni
47

ALL OUR
YESTERDAYS
Kingsley Hyland’s regular
stroll through the club
archives continues for
another season, with games
against Gloucester from 30
and 25 years ago.
SEPTEMBER 18, 1993
NEWCASTLE GOSFORTH 12-12 GLOUCESTER
Gloucester were the first league visitors to Kingston Park in
1993 following Newcastle Gosforth’s promotion from Division
Two.
The impetus created by the club’s relocation to Kingston Park,
culminating in promotion to the top flight of English rugby,
had bred optimism as director of rugby Mike Mahoney stated
publicly that a top six finish was achievable.
With no World Cup to delay the start of the league season
Newcastle had begun the campaign in the autumn sunshine at
Orrell the previous week. That match was memorable for the
second row pairing selected for Newcastle, where an 18-yearold
Garath Archer packed down for his debut alongside veteran
Terry Roberts, whose league registration form suggested was
44. Terry had played in the 1977 John Player Cup final victory
with Garath’s father!
With the benefit of the slope at Edge Hall Road the visitors had
raced into a 9-0 lead with three David Johnson penalties, but
they were soon given an insight to the realities of life in the
top flight as they were eventually overwhelmed 42-12.
ALL OUR YESTERDAYS
48
Newcastle’s optimism as they faced Gloucester the following
week was based on their Pilkington Cup victory over the
Cherry and Whites the previous season.
In the event they failed to cross the try line for the second
week running, but secured their first league point of the
season courtesy of a 12-12 draw in a bruising encounter.
The team were once again reminded of the greater physicality
of the top division and stood up to it well, although at the end
it felt like a point lost as they twice let slip a six-point lead.

Director of rugby Mick Mahoney at Kingston Park during the stadium’s construction

As with the previous week Newcastle were quick out of
the traps, two Johnson penalties giving them a 6-0 lead in
just eight minutes following acts of foul play which would
undoubtedly result in red cards in the current environment.
The teams that day were as follows:
Newcastle Gosforth: D.Bennett; T.Penn; R.Wilkinson; I.Chandler
(rep. T.Willcox); M.White; D.Johnson; S.Douglas; R.Fuller (rep.
P.Davidson 43); N.Frankland (capt); P.VanZandvliet; G.Archer;
S.Gibbs; B.Chick; R.Arnold; G.Clark.
Gloucester: T.Smith; P.Holford; S.Morris (rep. P.Beech 26);
D.Caskie; M.Nicholson; D.Cummins; M.Hannaford; P.Jones;
J.Hawker; A.Deacon; R.West; D.Sims; P.Ashmead; I.Smith (capt);
B.Fowkes.
Maintaining the father and son theme, Newcastle Gosforth
scrum-half Steve Douglas is the father of Ben, who had his
first Falcons’ start in the recent Premiership Cup win over
Caldy, whilst flanker Brian Chick’s son is the current Falcons
captain, Callum.
Falcons captain Callum Chick and his father, Brian
ALL OUR YESTERDAYS
50
Hooker Neil Frankland
Gloucester were level within 26 minutes through two penalties
from Tim Smith following a collapsed scrum and a scuffle
involving Richard Arnold and Marcus Hannaford, for which
referee David Matthews attributed responsibility to the Kiwi.
Five minutes later it was the visitors’ turn to collapse a scrum,
and Johnson’s third penalty saw the home side take a 9-6 lead
into the break.
Two minutes into the second half Johnson kicked another
penalty to restore the six-point cushion, but the remaining
scores came from Gloucester with two penalties from
replacement Paul Beech.
Paul Vanzandvliet, who was to play a prominent part in the
Falcons’ 1997-98 Premiership win, was making his debut.
Newcastle also performed creditably in the return match at
Kingsholm in January, 1994, going down 9-15.
Seven of Gloucester’s points on that occasion came from
a highly contentious penalty try awarded by referee Roger
Quittenden.
In the event, Newcastle had to wait until April 9, 1994 for their
first win in the league - a 19-17 triumph at London Irish, by
which time by they had already been relegated.
As a sign of their modest improvement they followed this up
with a 13-12 win in the return match against Orrell.

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OCTOBER 17, 1998
GLOUCESTER 41-32 NEWCASTLE FALCONS
The Falcons’ march to the first Premiership title the previous
season had included a hugely controversial 29-27 win at
Kingsholm on Easter Saturday.
They had made a faltering start to the defence of their title,
losing at Richmond (29-41) and at home to London Irish
(21-23).
They beat Bath (19-17) and Wasps (27-19) at home and West
Hartlepool (24-19) away before they made the long trip to
Kingsholm to face a Gloucester team and Shed intent on
avenging that defeat in April.
Gloucester’s Samoan centre Terry Fanolua
ALL OUR YESTERDAYS
The game kicked off with Newcastle having the benefit of a
very strong wind, but they started poorly when Phillipe Saint-
Andre crossed for an unconverted try following good work by
the back-row and centre Terry Fanolua.
The Falcons narrowed the deficit to two points when Jonny
Wilkinson kicked a penalty, but this was almost immediately
cancelled out by a similar effort from Simon Mannix which
gave the home side an 8-3 lead.
Peter Walton then crashed over for a try from a lineout which
Wilkinson could not convert but again Gloucester’s response
was immediate with Chris Catling scoring a try, and when
Mannix added his second penalty the visitors trailed 8-16 after
25 minutes.
Jonny Wilkinson
52

Facing the prospect of turning to face the wind in the second
half the Falcons did manage to make their advantage count in
the remaining minutes of the opening half.
From another attacking lineout Doddie Weir secured
possession, Nick Popplewell set up a ruck and was then the
recipient of a pass from Gary Armstrong before going over for
the score - Wilkinson’s conversion reducing the deficit to a
single point at 15-16.
Wilkinson then nudged the Falcons ahead 18-16 with his
second penalty, and there was still time before the break
to extend the lead to 25-18 after Wilkinson made a midfield
break and sent winger Jim Naylor over for a try which he then
converted.
The second half opened with two Mannix penalties to close
the gap at 25-22 before the home side’s speedy backs took
charge.
The Falcons’ defence was in disarray as Gloucester scored two
tries in three minutes. The first came when Inga Tuigamala’s
stray pass allowed Catling to score his second try which
Mannix converted, and then Audley Lumsden came off his
right wing to score in the left corner as Gloucester opened up
a nine point lead (34-25).
The Falcons responded well as full-back Peter Massey broke
from his own half and slipped the ball inside for Wilkinson to go
over between the posts.
Wilkinson’s conversion made it a two-point game (34-32) but
any chance of a fightback against the odds was snuffed out
when Catling completed his hat-trick and Mannix added the
points.
The teams that day were:
Newcastle: P.Massey; J.Naylor; V.Tuigamala; R.Andrew;
T.Underwood; J.Wilkinson; G.Armstrong; N.Popplewell (rep.
G.Graham 40); R.Nesdale; I.Peel; R.Beattie (rep. G.Archer 60);
D.Weir; P.Walton; R.Arnold (rep. S.O’Neil 56); D.Ryan (capt).
Gloucester: C.Catling; A.Lumsden; T.Fanolua; R.Tombs; P.Saint-
Andre; S.Mannix; I.Sanders; T.Woodman; C.Fortey; A.Deacon;
M.Cornwell; D.Sims; E.Pearce; N.Carter; S.Ojomoh
ALL OUR YESTERDAYS
53

FIXTURES AND RESULTS
FIXTURES AND RESULTS
SEPTEMBER
PRC Sat Sep 9 Ampthill W 17-40
PRC FRI SEP 15 BEDFORD BLUES W 26-16
PRC FRI SEP 22 SALE SHARKS W 23-10
PRC Sat Sep 30 Leicester Tigers L 60-7
OCTOBER
PRC SUN OCT 8 CALDY W 66-13
GP Sat Oct 14 Bath L 34-26
GP FRI OCT 20 GLOUCESTER 6pm
GP SUN OCT 29 NORTHAMPTON SAINTS 3pm
NOVEMBER
GP Sat Nov 4 Harlequins 3pm
GP SUN NOV 12 SARACENS 3pm
GP Fri Nov 17 Sale Sharks 7.45pm
GP SUN NOV 26 EXETER CHIEFS 3pm
DECEMBER
GP Sun Dec 3 Leicester Tigers 3pm
ECC SUN DEC 10 MONTPELLIER 3.15pm
ECC Sat Dec 16 Emirates Lions 3.15pm
GP FRI DEC 22 BRISTOL BEARS 7.45pm
GP Sat Dec 30 Saracens 3pm
JANUARY
GP FRI JAN 5 HARLEQUINS 7.45pm
ECC FRI JAN 12 BENETTON RUGBY 8pm
ECC Sun Jan 21 Perpignan 1pm
GP Jan 26/27/28 Northampton Saints TBC
MARCH
GP Mar 22/23/24 Exeter Chiefs TBC
GP MAR 29/30/31 LEICESTER TIGERS TBC
APRIL
ECC Apr 5/6/7 Round of 16
ECC Apr 12/13/14 Quarter-finals
GP Apr 19/20/21 Bristol Bears TBC
GP APR 26/27/28 SALE SHARKS TBC
MAY
ECC May 3/4/5 Semi-finals
GP MAY 10/11/12 BATH TBC
GP May 17/18/19 Gloucester TBC
ECC Fri May 24 Final (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)
JUNE
ECC Apr 5/6/7 Round of 16
ECC Apr 12/13/14 Quarter-finals
ALL OUR YESTERDAYS
54
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KEY: GP = Gallagher Premiership, ECC = EPCR Challenge Cup, PRC = Premiership Rugby Cup, F = Friendly.
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For more info visit WWW.RUGBYCAMPS.COM

BY MARK SMITH - NEWCASTLE FALCONS MEDIA MANAGER
It’s a bountiful buffet for the first issue of the season as we look at
the pressing matters in and around the oval-ball game.
RADIO GA-GA
It was lovely to see the fuss made for my old man Ian Smith at the end
of last season following his final BBC Newcastle commentary, with the
players inviting him into the changing room for a presentation.
And it was equally pleasing to hear that his retirement has not spelled
the end for live radio commentary of Falcons games, with Dean Gray
taking over the mantle.
As a long-time summariser for well over a decade the ‘Man of Northern’
is no stranger to the airwaves, but credit to him for taking on
the lead commentary role during the recent games against Leicester,
Caldy and Bath.
LET ME BE YOUR
FANTASY!
One of the big innovations this season has been the launch of Premiership
Rugby’s official fantasy game.
It may not be pioneering in its own right – football has had it for
decades and other rugby competitions have followed suit – but
Premiership Rugby have finally joined the party.
There’ll undoubtedly be traditionalists tutting away in the background
about ‘marketing gimmicks’ and such like, which is absolutely fine.
But for a different demographic of supporters this will be an entry
point into the sport and a means by which to keep them on the hook.
Even for die-hard Premiership followers like yours truly it adds another
layer of interest when following all fives games every weekend, and
there’s a vibrant staff league on the go at Kingston Park.
At least one player has picked themselves in their team, and I did
hear of someone at another Premiership club who made themselves
captain (meaning double points) and then scored a try on the opening
weekend!
Staying on the radio theme, we also had our head coach Alex Codling
live in the BBC Newcastle studio last week for their regular ‘Total
Sports’ show.
Codders is a sporting nut and was delighted to chat to former Crystal
Palace idol Marco Gabbiadini, as well as revealing his passion for darts
and cricket, among other things. It was great for supporters to get a
real insight into the personality of our new head coach, although there
was no mention of his unlikely penchant for thumping dance music!
PITCH PERFECT?
This season has seen BT Sport rebranded as TNT Sport due to their
takeover by Discovery, with a new production company, some new
presenters and a few new ideas to reinvigorate their presentation.
We’ve got changing room chats as the teams arrive at the venue and
a word with a substituted player in the dug-out during the second
half. But one move which has got tongues wagging is the on-field
interviews with players who have just scored a try.
It’s not to everyone’s taste, and as an armchair viewer I would personally
question how much insight you really get from an out-of-breath
winger telling you he’s happy he got over the line. But they’re trying
new things to grow the game, so let’s go with it.
What I definitely can’t condone – either online or in person – is the
abuse of presenters who are just doing their jobs.
FROM THE PRESS BOX - WITH MARK SMITH
57

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IN OPPOSITION
GLOUCESTER RUGBY
NICKNAME
Cherry and Whites
FOUNDED
1873
HOME GROUND
Kingsholm Stadium
HEAD COACH
George Skivington
CAPTAIN
Lewis Ludlow
Captain Lewis Ludlow
Gloucester Rugby arrive at Kingston Park no doubt determined
to redress the balance from last season, when Newcastle
Falcons defeated the Cherry and Whites home and away.
The Northeasterners were 27-21 winners at Kingsholm in
November of last year thanks to tries from Callum Chick, Adam
Radwan and George McGuigan, the hooker who only a couple of
weeks later had signed for the West Country outfit.
The return leg in March at Kingston Park if anything was even
more dramatic, with the 17th-minute red card for prop Richard
Palframan failing to half the momentum as the 14-man Falcons
emerged 17-12 victors.
Gloucester ended the 2022-23 season placed just one position
above Newcastle in the Gallagher Premiership standings,
although it has been a summer of stability rather than a squad
makeover for head coach George Skivington’s side.
Former England No.8 Zach Mercer was the headline acquisition
after two seasons at Montpellier, during which time he won
France’s Top 14 title and claimed the league’s Player of the
Season award.

Winning 25-17 at home to Harlequins in front of the TV
cameras, their local derby against neighbours Hartpury saw
Gloucester claiming a 40-14 triumph prior to their decisive
late win against
Coventry, while their friendly against the Barbarians saw
them winning 35-19.
Beginning the Gallagher Premiership season with a last-minute
29-28 at home to Harlequins, Skivington said: “Whatever
happened I wasn’t going to moan at the end if we’d ended
up losing, and I am not going to jump from the rooftops now
we’ve ended up winning.
“The game is small margins - the Premiership will be small
margins all year. The positive is we were given an opportunity
to win the game - and it’s only an opportunity until you take
it - but we had a couple of shots, we stayed on task and got
there.”
Back-rower Ruan Ackermann
Lock Freddie Clarke
Welsh centre Max Llewellyn adds ballast to the back line after
joining from Cardiff, with five London Irish players completing
their recruitment in the form of back row Ben Donnll,
scrum-half Caolan Englefield, fly-half Rory Taylor, prop Afolabi
Fasogbon and winger Michael Dykes.
Former London Irish coach James Lightfoot-Brown, installed as
Gloucester’s attack coach, will already be familiar with those
players, and there is a new chief executive for the Kingsholm
club following Alex Brown’s promotion as he replaces the
departed Lance Bradley.
Gloucester entered last week’s league opener after winning all
five of their Premiership Rugby Cup games, the most recent
of which was a 32-31 thriller at home to Coventry which
saw a last-minute Ollie Thorley try claiming victory over the
Championship outfit.
Skivington’s men kick-started their season by winning 42-14 at
home to Nottingham, and were 29-20 victors away to Saracens
in round two of Cup action.
IN OPPOSITION - GLOUCESTER RUGBY
63

ZACH MERCER
Number Eight
THREE TO
WATCH
HEAD COACH
George Skivington
Gloucester head coach George Skivington took over the reins in July
2020 following the departure of Johan Ackermann.
The former England Saxons international worked as an assistant coach
with Samoa at Rugby World Cup 2015, with Gloucester being his first
head coach position.
A second-rower in his playing days, Skivington spent nine years at
Wasps, during which time
they won four Premiership titles and a European Cup, before two
seasons at Leicester Tigers and a
further three at London Irish, where he then began his management
career as forwards coach.
The former England No.8 is one of the Premiership’s flagship
signings this summer, arriving from French big spenders,
Montpellier.
The son of former New Zealand rugby league international
Gary Mercer, Zach began his professional rugby career with
Bath, playing almost 100 games for the West Country club and
winning two test caps for England during the 2018-19 season.
Moving to Montpellier in 2021, the 26-year-old enjoyed two
fruitful seasons in the south of France as he helped steer
them to Top 14 title success in his first campaign there, as
well as winning the league’s Player of the Season award.

GEORGE MCGUIGAN
HOOKER
ADAM HASTINGS
fly-half
A familiar face to Newcastle Falcons supporters from his
two spells at the club, the North Yorkshire native joined the
Cherry and Whites midway through last season.
Playing his junior club rugby with Darlington and Tynedale,
the former Falcons academy hooker scored 48 tries in his
165 appearances for Newcastle, spending two seasons with
Leicester Tigers before returning to the North East.
McGuigan, 30, played his junior international rugby for Ireland
after impressing for the Exiles due to his family ancestry,
but has since trained with England on a number of occasions
without yet earning a full cap.
The Scottish fly-half has 27 international caps to his name
but was a narrow omission from their Rugby World Cup
squad.
The son of Scotland and Lions legend Gavin Hastings, Adam
made his professional breakthrough with Bath during the
2015-16 season before heading north to Glasgow Warriors, for
whom he played more than 50 times.
Joining Gloucester in the summer of 2021, the 27-year-old is
a renowned running threat who is also prone to a drop-goal
when the opportunity arises.
IN OPPOSITION - GLOUCESTER RUGBY
65

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SAM
CROSS
“
I
dabbled with a couple of positions,
fancying myself as a fly-half at first.

‘Conventional’ has rarely been a word in the vocabulary of
Sam Cross, the effervescent Welshman whose rugby road has
brought him north to Newcastle Falcons. And it has been some
journey.
Born in Abergavenny and raised in the Gwent town of Brynmawr,
the 31-year-old was more fixated on the round ball in his
youth. And even when he was introduced to rugby it was the
sevens code which initially took his fancy.
A university degree, an Olympic silver medal and a quickfire
call-up to Wales’ 15-a-side team followed for the athletic
back-rower, who admits: “My main sport growing up was
football, which I played all the way through until I was 15 or 16.
I got dragged into rugby through my mates, if I’m honest, and
the PE teacher at Brynmawr Comprehensive School wouldn’t
let you play football unless you played rugby first!
“It was no great hardship, and once I started playing I enjoyed
it. I dabbled with a couple of positions, fancying myself as a
fly-half at first, then moving to full-back, a little bit of centre
and then I had a growth spurt so I migrated to the second row,
then I stopped growing and ended up in the back row!
“My dad was captain of Brynmawr RFC, so I had a bit of a
connection to the local rugby club through him. I played a little
bit with Ebbw Vale age grade, and then starting playing with
Brynmawr was my first step into trying to take rugby seriously.
“Up until then it had been mainly football. I was a central midfielder
– kicking everything and just breaking things up in the
middle. I played for Waunllwyd and we had a pretty good side.
We used to clean up in the area competitions around where we
were based in the Gwent Valley, and I was lucky to
play with some good players who have gone on to play for
some good teams.
“I’m a big Arsenal fan through my dad and his dad too, so
Thierry Henry was a big hero of mine growing up. Cardiff City
was my local team so I used to go and watch them quite a bit
as well, but we still try and get down to Arsenal whenever we
can.”
Going on to study a sports and exercise science degree at UWIC
- now known as Cardiff Met – Cross says: “After youth rugby
I went and did a pre-season with Ebbw Vale RFC and played a
couple of Welsh Premiership games for them – funnily enough
coached by Alex Codling, who is now head coach here at the
Falcons.
“I left Ebbw Vale to study at UWIC because I wanted to be a professional
rugby player, and a few boys were starting to come
through that BUCS pathway. I had an option to go the academy
route but I wanted to get a degree and play a good standard of
regular rugby, and it suited me down to the ground.
“UWIC were in the BUCS competition on a Wednesday and also
in the Welsh SWALEC leagues on a Saturday, so you had that
mix of playing fast student rugby midweek then getting your
head kicked in by grizzled old lags throughout the valleys.
“I think that experience put me in good stead because I was
learning the dark arts as well as the more athletic and skillbased
stuff, and I also got my degree. We were playing against
clubs like Neath, Swansea and Ebbw Vale, and then getting to
the student final at Twickenham. It’s a pretty well-established
path now with guys like Alex Dombrandt and Luke Northmore
coming through Cardiff Met, and I know a few of the Falcons
PLAYER INTERVEIW - SAM CROSS
69

70

oys as well have come via the university route. I played
against Durham in the BUCS final, which we unfortunately lost,
but when you look at the teams from that game there were
quite a few who went on to play pro.”
Exposure in the BUCS 7s competition led to a call-up for Wales
7s, which very quickly expanded into life on the road as an
international 7s star.
“I played five years on the World Rugby 7s circuit, and I think at
one point I’d gone something like three or four seasons without
playing any 15s at all,” he reveals.
“In 2012 when it was announced that rugby 7s was going to
become an Olympic sport for Rio 2016, I’d just broken into the
Wales squad, and that was always my target even though the
games were still four years away at that point. I wanted to be
in the best shape I could be to make that GB team, and post
that I wanted to push on with my 15-a-side career.
“My target was to
play in the Olympics.”
“We had a pretty good Wales 7s squad, and when I first went
in there were still a few boys knocking round from the team
which had won the 7s World Cup back in 2009. I learnt my trade
off the likes of Richie Pugh, Rhys Sherrard and Lee Williams,
and we had a good group of young players coming through at
the same time. We were knocking on the door or semi-finals,
winning Plates and things like that, so we were fairly competitive
on that World Rugby 7s circuit.
“I think it definitely helped my game once I went into 15s -
firstly just the experience of playing in big stadiums around the
world in front of decent crowds. The tournaments were on Sky
Sports back then so there was that bit of pressure knowing
you had an audience back home, and for me as a relatively
young guy it helped me mature. You were away from home a
lot, having to look after your body, and you grow up fast on the
7s circuit.
“Even in pure rugby terms it helps to just get the ball in your
hands and express yourself a bit, which I try to bring to my 15s
game. The fitness benefit is obvious and I used to really enjoy
it. We did pretty well in that Olympic year and a couple of us got
selected for GB, which was an incredible experience.”
Reflecting on a mad few weeks in Brazil which saw Team
PLAYER INTERVEIW - SAM CROSS
Sam Cross making a tackle during the 2016 Olympics
71

PLAYER INTERVEIW - SAM CROSS
GB taking a silver medal behind eventual winners Fiji, Cross
says: “Growing up as a rugby player I never thought I’d have
the chance to play in the Olympics, and I’m a massive general
sports fan anyway.
“I was probably a bit of a fan boy in the athletes’ village, but
I just wanted to go and watch everything. I remember one
night playing table tennis against Andy Murray, who is an idol
of mine, and I watched him in the Olympic final against Juan
Martin del Potro. That was pretty special, and you’d just be
bumping into people like Mo Farah, Michael Phelps and that
kind of stuff.
“I remember one
night playing table
tennis against Andy
Murray.”
“Our building in the village was just outside the tennis practice
courts, so you’d look out of your window or go for a coffee and
see Novak Djokovic hitting balls with Boris Becker. It was just
weird in a really good way, and for a big sports fan just to go to
an Olympics – never mind winning a medal – was unreal.
“I had a four-year period with Wales 7s which was probably a
bit longer than I wanted, to be honest, but the whole Olympic
thing had been a big carrot in terms of keeping me in there.
Once I’d done that the plan was always to transition into 15s,
and when Steve Tandy contacted me to bring me into the
Ospreys I knew I had to take the opportunity.”
If Cross thought it was going to be a gradual introduction to life
as a 15-a-side rugby player he was in a for a rude awakening,
as the man himself explains.
“I’d only been in the Ospreys camp for a couple of weeks and I
was travelling reserve for a Champions Cup game away against
Saracens, who were the European champions at the time. In
the team run the day before the game Dan Lydiate pulled out
so I moved up to the bench, and then in the warm-up Justin
Tipuric pulled out. All of a sudden I’ve gone from not having
played a single professional 15s game to starting against the
reigning European champions, but I scored a try and it went
pretty well.
“Three days later I got called up for the Wales squad for the
autumn internationals where I played against Australia and
Georgia, and it was surreal yet again just to have everything
happening so quickly.
“Growing up I used to go to the Millennium Stadium to watch
Wales play, and it’s every boy’s dream to pull on that jersey. All
of a sudden that was me, and I’m stood there in front of 80,000
supporters singing the national anthem. They were really
special occasions and I got to live my childhood dream, which is
something nobody can ever take away from me.”
His international experience turned out to be a brief one, but a
solid club career followed.
“I had five or six years with the Ospreys and played over 70
games for them,” says Cross.
“It was disappointing to miss the best part of 18 months at the
end through injuries but I enjoyed my time there, and it was
awesome to learn from so many great players. Just training
every day with guys like Alun Wyn Jones, Dan Lydiate, Justin
Tipuric, James Hook, Paul James – all heavily-capped international
players – I was really fortunate to have people like that
guiding me when I was learning the ropes at 15s.
“After such a long-term injury I just wanted to play rugby, and
the opportunity to come to Newcastle was one that really interested
me. I’m a big fan of the English Premiership just through
watching it on TV, and with Newcastle having the artificial
pitch that was also another attraction. I really like the surface
because it speeds up the game, and with the way Codders is
looking to play as head coach it suits my own style of play.
“Newcastle having
the artificial pitch
was a big attraction.”
“The URC stuff seemed to be more about scrums and kicking,
whereas the Premiership is a great all-round product. I’ll
hopefully get to play in some amazing grounds and experience
what it has to offer, like going down to Bath last weekend. It
was obviously a big move in terms of the geography, but I’m
excited by it.
“I know we didn’t go through in the cup but overall I think it was
a pretty successful campaign, bar the one game at Leicester.
We scored a lot of tries and played a good brand, so now it’s all
about taking that into the Premiership season.”
72

“
I
Sam Cross making his Wales debut against Australia
went from not playing 15s to starting
against the European champions.
PLAYER INTERVEIW - SAM CROSS
73

There are many miles between rugby clubs in Northumberland
and there are relatively few of them compared to other
counties, but when it comes to growing the game for women
and girls, Northumberland RFU are certainly not letting the
grass grow under their feet.
Six Northumberland clubs have launched women’s teams in the
past three years, and now there’s a trio of females in leading
roles in the county branch - Northumberland RFU president
Ruth Scott, the county’s representative on the RFU Council
Penny Stewart and the chair, Lucy Armstrong.
Former Red Roses captain, Sarah Hunter, whose first rugby
club was Novocastrians in Northumberland, remains hugely
supportive of the women’s and girls’ game in the county and
was a team-mate of new president Ruth Scott.
Ruth, an ambassador for the women’s game for many years,
said: “It’s a great honour to take over the presidency and a
privilege to be the first female to hold the position, so it was
particularly special to award Sarah Hunter with her honorary
life membership of Northumberland given that I played alongside
her as she first started her rugby journey.
“She has been an
inspiration to all, both on
and off the pitch.”
“I fully anticipate that more and more committee and board
positions will be held by women in the future, and am certain
there will be more female presidents to follow.”
Penny Stewart was also the first female Northumberland RFU
Council member, saying: “It’s a huge privilege to be the first
female representative for Northumberland on the RFU Council,
a position which is voted for by the clubs.
“It’s a great responsibility but also an honour to be involved
with shaping the sport for the future.
“I’ve met some wonderful, inspiring people on my journey and
have been involved with some thought-provoking and gamechanging
projects.
“My club visits around Northumberland are something I
look forward to each year. It’s great to catch up with what’s
happening on the ground - and also see a game of course!
“When I first got involved with rugby some 20 years ago as a
‘rugby mum’ I never imagined I would end up as an RFU Council
Member. It shows that Rugby is now a game for all, both on
and off the field.
“It’s with great pride that I see our women’s and girls’ game
growing and more females taking up leadership roles, working
alongside their male counterparts as we all share one passion
– rugby union.”
Northumberland is rightly proud to celebrate its women in
rugby.
If you have a good news story about your club you want to
share, please email
DeanGray@northumberlandrfu.co.uk with the details.
NORTHUMBERLAND RUGBY UNION
75

arbour.com

GIMME FIVE!
Our quickfire Q&A puts a Newcastle Falcons player under the spotlight, getting to know them on and off the field.
This week it’s the turn of lock-forward Tim Cardall to tackle our five questions, with the former Wasps and Nottingham
player joining the Falcons this summer from Australian Super Rugby side, Melbourne Rebeals.
Pre-match music?
My playlist has allsorts on, so I have a mix of everything
ranging from Motown to indie!
Cheat meal?
Pizza.
Hobbies?
I am coaching the Northumbria Uni Women’s 1st team,
which I’m really enjoying so far.
Ideal holiday destination?
Dubrovnik in Croatia
Rugby hero?
Growing up Jonny Wilkinson and Martin Johnson, but as I
started playing more I enjoyed watching Brian O Driscoll
and Paul O’Connell. Having played in Super Rugby, I really
enjoyed analysing Scott Barrett and Sam Whitelock
GIMMIE FIVE! - WITH TIM CARDELL
77

TONIGHT
BELOW
NEWCASTLE FALCONS’
ADAM RADWAN
TOMORROW
GALLAGHER
PREMIERSHIP
PREVIEWS
BELOW
Saracens’Nick Isiekwe
NEWCASTLE FALCONS
V GLOUCESTER
Newcastle Falcons beat today’s
opponents, Gloucester, at Kingston
Park in March. The Falcons have won
all three home games they have played
in 2023/24, all in the Premiership
Rugby Cup. Gloucester have not won
away from home in Premiership Rugby
since their trip to London Irish on this
weekend last year.
Newcastle achieved a Premiership Rugby
season’s double over Gloucester in
2022/23 for the first time since 2016/17
and have never won three successive
matches in the competition against the
Cherry and Whites.
SARACENS
V BATH
Gallagher Premiership Rugby
Champions Saracens suffered their
biggest ever defeat in the tournament
in Round 1 at Exeter, and have not lost
successive Premiership Rugby matches
since January 2022. The last time that
Saracens started a new Premiership
Rugby season with two losses was in
2008/09.
Bath Rugby have won their last five
Gallagher Premiership matches, and
have not won six in a row in the competition
since 2015. Bath beat Saracens
61-29 at the Recreation Ground in May
to end a five-game winless run against
the Londoners. Bath have never won in
ten previous visits to StoneX Stadium,
although they did draw 17-all there
behind closed doors in October 2020.

BELOW
NORTHAMPTON’S
FINN SMITH
SUNDAY
BELOW
Harlequins back-rower
Tom Lawday
BELOW
Leicester Tigers hooker
Nic Dolly
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS
V BRISTOL BEARS
HARLEQUINS
V EXETER CHIEFS
Northampton Saints have lost their
last two Gallagher Premiership Rugby
fixtures and have not lost three in
succession in the tournament since
March 2022. The Saints have won their
last eight Premiership Rugby home
matches since Leicester beat them
there in September 2022.
Bristol Bears have won only once away
from home in Premiership Rugby in
2023, beating Bath at the Recreation
Ground in February. The Bears have lost
on their last two visits to Northampton.
LEICESTER TIGERS
V SALE SHARKS
This will be Leicester’s 600th Premiership
match (W382, D24, L193). Leicester
Tigers have slipped to three successive
defeats in Gallagher Premiership Rugby
and have not lost four in succession
since 2019.
Sale Sharks’ only defeat in their last six
Gallagher Premiership encounters was
in last season’s final to Saracens. Sale
have won nine of their last ten fixtures
against Leicester in the Premiership,
and were one of only three visitors to
taste success in Premiership Rugby
at Mattioli Woods Welford Road last
season.
Northampton Saints have lost their
last two Gallagher Premiership Rugby
fixtures and have not lost three in
succession in the tournament since
March 2022. The Saints have won their
last eight Premiership Rugby home
matches since Leicester beat them
there in September 2022.
Bristol Bears have won only once away
from home in Premiership Rugby in
2023, beating Bath at the Recreation
Ground in February. The Bears have lost
on their last two visits to Northampton.
GALLAGHER PREMIERSHIP PREVIEWS
79

CLUB
NEWS
FLY WITH THE
FALCONS
Perpignan’s Stade Aime Giral
Travel on Newcastle Falcons’ team charter flight when we take on
Perpignan in the EPCR Challenge Cup.
Our flight-only package is priced at £350 and will see you flying with
the players and support staff direct from Newcastle to Perpignan on
Saturday January 20. The game takes place the following afternoon,
with the return flight back to Newcastle later that day.
Please note, hotel, transfers and match ticket are not included. Book
direct by emailing jodie.jinks@travelcounsellors.com.
ENJOY 25% OFF
AT GAUCHO!
Newcastle Falcons are delighted to announce Gaucho as the club’s
official restaurant partner.
The Argentinian steak restaurant opened earlier this year and already
has an outstanding reputation for the best sustainable steak and
finest premium wines.
Gaucho’s partnership includes an exciting new offer for Newcastle
Falcons’ season ticket holders, who can enjoy 25% off their food
bill from the a la carte menu seven days per week at all Gaucho
restaurants nationwide. Each season ticket holder is able to book a
table for up to six guests and must show their season ticket card to
take advantage of this discount.
Situated in a Grade Two listed building on Market Street in Newcastle
city centre, the two-year partnership also sees Gaucho becoming the
player sponsor for Newcastle Falcons and Argentina prop Eduardo
Bello.
To celebrate this new partnership Gaucho Newcastle hosted a grand
entrance launch, with guests including Newcastle Falcons chairman
Semore Kurdi and players Tom Penny, Callum Chick and Matias
Orlando.
PRTV RETURNS!
PRTV is back for another season, and supporters can enjoy any live
Gallagher Premiership Rugby fixture not shown on TNT Sports or ITV.
Fans can buy a Match Pass to watch a specific fixture or a Season
Pass to watch all available matches over the season.
A Match Pass is £5.99 to watch the game of your choice. A Season
Pass is £129.99 to watch all available games for a whole season of
Gallagher Premiership Rugby.
Visit video.premiershiprugby.com/pr-tv.
CLUB NEWS
81

Another team
you can count on
Nuffield Health Newcastle Hospital
We’ve been providing outstanding private healthcare to people in the
North East for over 40 years. You can trust our team of dedicated experts
who offer a wide range of treatments including:
• Hip and knee surgery
• Joint preservation surgery
• Cataract surgery
• Neck and spinal surgery
• Men’s health – bladder and prostate
• Women’s health – breast screening.
To find out more call 0808 149 3239
or visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/newcastle-upon-tyne

SUSTAINABILITY AT NEWCASTLE RUGBY LIMITED:
Championing the Future of Sport and the Planet
At Newcastle Rugby Limited, we are committed to driving sustainability in the world of
sports and entertainment. Our vision extends beyond the thrill of the game, focusing
on the long-term well-being of our planet, our community, and future generations.
Here are our key messages on sustainability:
1. Greening the Game:
We are actively reducing our carbon footprint through energy-efficient
technologies and renewable energy sources. From LED floodlighting to future
planning for solar panels, we’re dedicated to minimising our impact on the
environment.
2. Waste Reduction:
We’re tackling waste head-on by implementing recycling programs, reducing
single-use plastics, and encouraging fans to join us on our journey. Together,
we aim to create a cleaner, greener stadium experience.
3. Food Waste:
We have reduced our food waste and all our products are UK sourced.
Ultimately, locally sourced food products policy reflects a commitment to
fostering local economies, reducing environmental impact, and providing
consumers with fresh and high-quality food options. It can also be tailored
to the specific goals and circumstances of the organisation or community
implementing it.
4. Biodiversity and Green Spaces:
Our stadium isn’t just a venue; it’s a hub for nature. We’re nurturing green
spaces around the stadium, creating habitats for local wildlife, and enhancing
the overall quality of life in our neighbourhood.
5. Inclusivity and Accessibility:
We’re ensuring everyone can enjoy the excitement of our games by prioritising
accessibility and inclusivity in our stadium design. From accessible seating to
quiet break out spaces, we’re fostering an inclusive fan experience.
6. Future-Proofing Sport
Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s the future of sports and entertainment.
By adopting eco-friendly practices, we’re safeguarding the longevity of our
stadium and the sports we all love.
7. Inspiring Change:
Our Stadium is more than a venue; it’s a platform for positive change. We’re
committed to inspiring fans, partners, and the sports industry to embrace
sustainability and make a lasting impact.
Join us on this exciting journey towards a more sustainable future. Together, we can
make every game a win for both our teams and the planet. Newcastle Rugby Limited:
Where Passion Meets Sustainability.

QUIZ
Q1 Which ex-Newcastle Falcons centre
is on Gloucester’s coaching staff?
Q2 Which former Gloucester and
Newcastle Falcons player is pictured
here?
Q6 Which club were relegated from
France’s Top 14 last season?
Q7 ‘Coach nourishment’ is an anagram
of which Newcastle Falcons new boy?
Q8 In which country will Rugby World
Cup 2027 take place?
Q9 Which Newcastle Falcons player is
pictured here?
Q3 ‘Los Teros’ are the national rugby
team of which country?
Q4 Which player was the top points
scorer in last season’s Gallagher
Premiership?
Q5 True or false, Newcastle Falcons
prop Murray McCallum was an extra in
the 2017 film ‘T2 Trainspotting’?
Q10 Which player was red-carded when
Newcastle Falcons last played against
Gloucester?
ANSWERS: 1 Dom Waldouck, 2 Andrew Davidson, 3 Uruguay, 4 Paddy Jackson, 5 False, 6 Brive, 7 Cameron Hutchison, 8
Australia, 9 Elliott Obatoyinbo, 10 Richard Palframan.

Photo from The Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final 2023
TACKLE
YOUR TALENT
STRATEGY
Talent scarcity is happening right now
causing real shortages in every sector
of the UK economy.
Delivering a better employee experience is
critical to attract, engage and retain the talent
you need to grow and succeed.
Gallagher is helping organisations and their
people to feel different about work.
Let Gallagher help you.
THE GALLAGHER WAY. SINCE 1927.
ajg.com/uk/employeebenefits-consulting/
E: sayhello@ajg.com
T: +44 (0)20 7204 8990
Gallagher and Gallagher Employee Benefits are trading names of Gallagher Risk & Reward Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority. Not all business carried out by the company is regulated. Arthur J. Gallagher (UK) Limited is authorised and regulated
by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: The Walbrook Building, 25 Walbrook, London EC4N 8AW. Registered in England and Wales.
Company Number: 1193013. FP900-2022b Exp 15.06.2023 | ARTUK-4318