From the match programme:-
“Welcome to another exciting British and Irish Cup game here at Kingston Park.”
“We’ve had a strong start in this competition so far and although last week’s trip to Newport for the away leg of this fixture was a challenging game, particularly during the second-half, we’re hopeful that we can continue our recent success today.”
“Although a great deal of our efforts for the season have to be focussed on the Championship and our campaign to return back to the Premiership, the cup is a great opportunity to experience and play against different teams who wouldn’t usually make the journey up to Newcastle.”
“For myself and the coaching staff, these cup games present an opportunity for our younger players to take to the field and gain all-important game time. Thanks to our excellent academy, Newcastle Falcons has an exciting and talented group of youngsters waiting to rise up through the ranks.”
“However, without game time, those youngsters will never get their chance to shine and to prove their worth in the first team. We are fortunate to have a strong squad, and there is much to be gained from experimenting with the full depth of that squad. I hope that this afternoon you will get to see some of our exciting, younger faces and watch the Falcons stars of the future alongside our more experienced, regular first team players.”
“Looking ahead past Christmas, the England Saxons v Scotland game which will be held here on 1 February should also be a great chance to spot a new crop of rugby talent, this time on an international stage. I was fortunate enough to be at Twickenham recently for England’s victory over New Zealand and if that performance is anything to go by, the future of English rugby looks bright.”
“Whether we can translate that potential to success in 2015 will be down to the players and coaching staff, and many of those players hoping to make that step up to the big stage will be taking to the field for the Saxons over the next two years.”
“The opportunity to watch such a big match here in Newcastle is one I would encourage any local rugby fan to jump at, and so I hope you all have your tickets for that game!”
“Thank you, as always, for your support. The famous Geordie welcome has been one of the things that has impressed me most during my first few months with the club and I look forward to meeting and talking with more of you as the season progresses. In particular, I am already looking forward to celebrating the festive season with a mulled drink or two next weekend at our game against London Scottish and hope to see you all there.
Thanks again, and enjoy the game.”
“Dean Richards”