Falcons coach targets big finish

Geoff Parling crashes over to score the opening try in the Falcons' 35-3 win at Bristol on Friday

Newcastle Falcons coach Steve Bates has warned his side they must not rest on their laurels and has urged them to finish the Premiership season strongly.

Falcons all but secured their safety with a 35-3 win at Bristol on Friday and the former Borders coach is keen for his side to maintain their form.

"We need to be more positive and say 'why don't we look at getting into mid-table?'," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"There's another nine games to go and we're capable of being right up there."

International fixtures handed the Falcons a fortnight's break in which to recover and prepare for the trip to Bristol, a game tipped by many as a relegation decider.

And Bates believes his players showed character and mettle in maintaining their momentum going into the game.

"I'm really pleased for the boys because they've been under a bit of pressure," he added.

"They looked fresh, in good physical shape, they've looked after themselves.

"From the Gloucester game they've gained a lot of confidence, they knew it was a big game for the club and they've responded to that well."