Tait believes his side are proud to represent Falcons

Newcastle Falcons coach Alan Tait is convinced the current squad have a genuine passion to bring success to the North East this season.

Tait is in his first full season as head coach after two years as assistant and believes the spirit in the dressing room suggests a motivation to succeed.

"These players are passionate about this club," Tait told BBC Newcastle.

"Before the game they talked about how wearing the Falcons jersey should mean a lot to them and I was proud of that."

Tait added: "It was a massive step forward that I've seen in the last couple of years at this club.

"I don't have to beat my chest about that, the players, the ones who are selected, will turn up on Friday and put a performance in that will be worthy of the work that we've been doing."

Falcons return to Kingston Park for their first home encounter of the season in the Aviva Premiership on Friday, taking on a London Wasps side who drew 29-29 with Harlequins in their season-opener.

Tait expects a fierce test from an experienced Wasps side, and has also called on supporters to create an intimidating atmosphere for the Friday night event.

"I don't think I've ever seen a weak Wasps team, people always say they've got injuries but they keep rolling out the names," Tait said.

"They got a good draw against Harlequins on Saturday, a lot of points, there's still [Simon] Shaw and [Joe] Worsley the old campaigners knocking themselves about, they've got the front row of [Phil] Vickery and [Tim] Payne.

"In the backs there's Riki Flutey, who looks a good player, a good 10, if he plays there; because [former Falcons fly-half] Dave Walker could play and kick them around the field, and he knows this pitch better than anyone.

"We're all true supporters and I want them to get there and get behind this team.

"We're a young side, we're trying to grow this team from the grassroots again and the crowd can play a massive part in taking us forward."

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