Leicester's hopes of a top-four finish were dented after defeat to Newcastle.

The Falcons took the lead with hooker Andy Long's converted score, but the Tigers hit back through Jordan Crane.

Tom Varndell's first score of the game saw Leicester take the lead on 30 minutes, but Phil Dawson's try ensured Newcastle were on top at half-time.

Tom May extended the home side's lead after the break, but penalties from Andy Goode and Varndell's second try saw Leicester fall just short.

Interview: Leicester coach Marcelo Loffreda

Interview: Leicester Tigers back Aaron Mauger

The Tigers had an opportunity to level the match in the final moments of the game with a late penalty kick.

But rather than kicking for three points, Leicester opted for territory in search of the winning try.

However, Newcastle held firm in defence to end their run of seven successive Premiership defeats.

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson was once again in fine form, adding 13 points with the boot.

Acting Newcastle director of rugby Steve Bates:
"I'm very, very proud of the team.

"We saw evidence today of the type of rugby we have been trying to play for some time, it was a big win for us."

Leicester boss Marcelo Loffreda:
"They knew they had to play with more urgency and came back strongly in the last quarter.

"Mathematically we still have a chance - but realistically our main aim now is to qualify for Europe again next season.

"I'm comfortable with the way we are playing. I am confident we are going in the right direction."

Newcastle: Tait; May, Dillon, Visser, Rudd; Wilkinson, Grindal; Golding, Long, Hayman, Perry, Buist, Parling, Woods, Dowson (capt).
Replacements: Vickers, Wilson, Beattie, Winter, Williamson, Charlton, Phillips.

Leicester: Murphy; Varndell, Hipkiss, Mauger, Tuilagi; Goode, Ellis; Castrogiovanni, Kayser, White, Wentzel, Kay, Corry (capt), Croft, Crane.
Replacements: Ayerza, Davies, Blaze, Deacon, Laussucq, Vesty, Erinle.