NEWCASTLE

WHETHER the comings and goings at Newcastle – with 14 ins and 17 outs – leaves the Falcons any stronger than they were last season is hard to assess.

That is because the bedrock of the Newcastle squad laid down by rugby director Dean Richards remains intact, and most of those leaving are either returning overseas or hanging up the boots.

The Falcons proved last season that they are noone’s doormats, especially at Kingston Park.With Will Welch leading a combative pack, the well-travelled Kiwi veteran Mike Delany at fly- half, and danger men out wide in Veriniki Goneva – captured from Leicester – and ace finisher Sinoti Sinoti, a trip to the north-east might not be as hospitable as it has been in recent years.

Watch out for Evan Olmstead, an all-action Canadian blindside/lock who has joined from London Scottish, and rugged Saxons No.8 Mark Wilson, who was a key part of their successful drive to avoid the drop last season.

Richards will be targeting the first week in October because, if the Falcons are to stay up again, it is essential that they not only pick up four points from their visit to Worcester, but follow it up with a win over newly promoted Bristol at Kingston Park.