The Falcons have recorded a solitary victory from eight Aviva Premiership starts this term, leaving them five points adrift of 11th-placed Worcester.
French club Lyon are the visitors to Kingston Park this weekend for an Amlin Challenge Cup Pool Two clash, and Newcastle must target a minimum four-point return, given that their group also includes former Falcons star Jonny Wilkinson's Toulon.
Newcastle head coach Alan Tait has made seven changes, including a start for fly-half Jeremy Manning instead of the rested Jimmy Gopperth, while wing Ryan Shortland and centre Luke Eves also feature.
"They (Lyon) are a typical French side who like to utilise a lot of high kicks, which can make things difficult," Tait said.
"We are just concentrating on ourselves, and there will be changes again for the trip to Italy (against Petrarca Padova) next week."
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The entire All Blacks apparel line has been updated for 2013/14. Check out the New Zealand All Blacks polo.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Gilbert Blitz 8S rugby cleat is a great cleat at a great price of $69.99. Get a new pair of cleats today.
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The All Blacks Performance t-shirt is black with hints of blue from the training jersey. Very Cool.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.
