Newcastle look to future as Leeds focus on the present

Newcastle Falcons have sent out a message of intent to remain in the Aviva Premiership with the signing of Auckland centre Jamie Helleur for next season, ahead of Saturday’s pivotal match against Leeds Carnegie.
By Beth Ashton
Published 6th Apr 2011, 15:18 BST

The news comes ahead of a game that will prove vital as both teams fight to keep their heads above water in the league, with Falcons having the edge over Carnegie in the table by just two points.

Leeds will be looking to consolidate a position in the Premiership and, as Helleur becomes Newcastle’s third new signing in recent weeks, a win for the away team this weekend will shake the foundations and security that Falcons have signalled for their future.

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Helleur will be joined at Newcastle next season by Otago back Ryan Shortland and Gloucester scrum-half Jordi Pasqualin.

Leeds head coach Neil Back is prefering to concentrate on the immediate future, with his preparations for Saturday boosted by the return to selection of Tom Denton, Scott Barrow, Jon Pendlebury and Lachie Mackay.

He will be looking to build on the success of last week’s 27-22 victory over Exeter Chiefs at Headingley Carnegie and hoping that the return to form of these players, coupled with recent success, will give his team the boost that they need to prove that Carnegie are more than a Championship team.

Related topics:Newcastle FalconsNewcastleLeeds