North East switch welcome for Welsh
Following on from his club and Aviva Premiership debut against Northampton, Newcastle Falcons new boy Jon Welsh is relishing the opportunity to take on the best sides in England on a more frequent basis, following his summer switch from Glasgow Warriors.
The 29 year old prop put in a full 80 minute shift at Stadium:MK, competing well against the Saints’ Alex Waller and describing the game as a “real experience.”
Welsh said: “It was very forward orientated with both teams trying to utilise us, keeping the ball in the scrums a bit longer, the driving mauls and it was great and a real experience.
“I know that’s not their usual stadium that the play at, but it was a great ground and it was a good opportunity to play there and the whole thing was just really good, playing against one of the English giants was a good way to get out on the pitch and cut my teeth.”
Having been part of the Glasgow side since 2008 and lifting the Guinness Pro 12 crown in 2014/15, the offer to become part of the Falcons was one that came at the right time for him.
“I’m coming into my more experienced years, so an opportunity to come down and play in the Premiership so it was something I jumped at and it’s great to be here, seeing how things are done a bit differently and for a bit of a change.”
That change is not only out on the field, with the move to a new city also set to provide Welsh and his partner with a host of new life experiences.
“It’s a bit of a change, I’ve been down before and its really nice. Everyone is friendly. I’m sure a lot of people say that when they go to new places but they genuinely are here. The guys have been ever so helpful telling me everything I need to try and settle in.”
Obviously I spent a bit of time here during the world cup and have been down before, but you’re so into training and preparing, there’s no real time to go and explore. That said, my partner has been down a bit longer than I have so we’re all settling in really well.”
A fuller interview with Jon will be available in the match day programme at Sunday’s Aviva Premiership clash against Exeter Chiefs.
Tickets for the match are still available and can be booked by [clicking here][1] calling 0871 2266060 or calling into the club box office during office hours.
[1]: https://www.eticketing.co.uk/newcastle-falcons/details/event.aspx?itemref=2805
