Noakes finds touch at halfway and Irish look to mount an attack.

Penalty Irish at the scrum on their 22.

Falcons win a free kick at the scrum and take the quick tap.

Noakes kicks long but it's overcooked and goes dead. We'll come back for a scrum at halfway.

The kick is good and Irish draw first blood.

High tackle from a Newcastle player in front of their goal. Irish opt for the posts.

Falcons not releasing. Noakes kicks up to the 22.

Irish pinged in the Falcons hand. Willis finds good field position.

Falcons on the front foot now after an early kicking match.

Willis kicks off.