New boss Walder wants to add wow factor at Falcons

DAVE Walder wants Newcastle to play with more ambition next season and take advantage of threats like Adam Radwan after admitting the Falcons have not played in the style he favours this campaign.

Head coach Walder, below, will take charge next season with Dean Richards stepping down as director of rugby next month after 10 years at the helm at Kingston Park.

“We have not played as well this season as we would have liked or in a style we are happy with,” said the former outside-half Walder, reflecting on a campaign which started with four victories and a draw in the first eight matches but stalled after an outbreak of Covid at the club.

“I was brought up on football and people coming to sport to be entertained,” continued Walder who has visited resurgent Newcastle United’s training ground and spoken to their manager, Eddie Howe.

“There are two ways you can entertain. One is by winning things and if you could guarantee me that you would win the league by winning 3-0 every week, I would probably take that.

“But there comes a tipping point where that will get you to fifth in the league and that is

not enjoyable. I want to see a brand of rugby where the ball is moved on the surface we have

that should encourage a fast game of rugby.

“I think this year at times we have let ourselves down by being caught in a cycle of playing a game we think gives us the best chance of winning but is not necessarily that enjoyable to play. Maybe at times I have got the balance wrong in terms of how I have set the team up and I want to get closer to my philosophy and beliefs while still thinking what is best for the group to win games of rugby.”

Walder said it would feel strange without the looming figure of Dean Richards at Kingston Park every day, although the former England No.8, below, is expected to remain involved in some capacity after standing down as director of rugby.

The make-up of Walder’s coaching team is expected to be revealed shortly.

“Dean has been very good at guiding and steering over the years,” said Walder. “He leaves the coaches to get on with things and the dynamic with him has been brilliant.

“He challenges you in a good way, keeping you on your toes, and it has been great having him around. He is a huge bloke physically and he is as big a character. He has managed the group superbly and he will be a huge miss. I have the chance to take the club forward as best I can and I enjoy responsibility.”

Walder hopes the feelgood factor on Tyneside generated by Newcastle United will rub off on the Falcons. “The towns is buzzing,” he said. “The north-east is unique because sport tops the entertainment list. The energy at the football club is rubbing off on everyone and we want to see that pride and passion.”