Richards hails Falcons’ character

Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards was pleased with his side's character as they held on for a 20-16 win over London Irish on Sunday.

Having held the lead for most of the game, the Falcons' resolve was tested as they were made to repel a late Irish surge on their try-line.

Newcastle director of rugby Richards said: “It nearly got away from us but it has been quite a disrupted week for the boys and they just about did enough.

“It’s not ideal for the boys to spending seven hours-plus on the coach the day before a game but they just got on with it. We refused to let it affect us and in a way, I can forgive the boys for not getting the bonus point after all they’ve been through.

“We held out. We didn’t concede a try and we’re pleased about that but our accuracy in other areas was what put a slight downer on the day.”

Meanwhile, London Irish fly-half Greig Tonks lamented his side's inability to convert their territorial dominance in to five-pointers.

“It’s the story of the year so far; the last play of the game, we’re on the try line," he said.

“We were close to getting that winning try and then somethings happens at the breakdown and it’s done.

“We’re all pretty frustrated. We did some good stuff but little moments and errors let it slip.

“We’re frustrated but it’s on to next week, I guess.”