Director of rugby John Fletcher insists his side has moved on from Saturday’s defeat to London Irish after a slow start at the Madejski Stadium, and his Newcastle team will be hoping to repeat their home heroics of two weeks ago when London Wasps were put to the sword 37-11.

“Saturday’s result was hugely disappointing given the way we came right back in to the game after such a slow start, but we have to move on,” said Fletcher.

“There were a number of plus points we can take from our second-half performance as we face a good Saracens team, and we will hope to extend what has been a fantastic run of form at home this season.”

The Falcons have not been beaten on home soil for four months in any competition, with the Kingston Park factor proving key throughout the season.

“Four of our last six Guinness Premiership games are at home, and if we can continue in the manner we have done at Kingston Park so far this season then we will be in reasonable shape,” said Fletcher.

“We will be working hard this week to rectify the errors we saw in the first half down at London Irish, and the players are showing great application in getting on with that task.

“With a good home crowd behind us on Friday we will see a different level of performance altogether.

“The results show that not many teams like coming to Kingston Park, and we are approaching this week with a very positive mindset ahead of what promises to be an exciting physical test.”

Tickets for Friday’s game (kick-off 8pm) are still available by calling 0871 226 60 60, or popping to Kingston Park during office hours.