Newcastle out to make most of European experience

Newcastle Red Bulls are determined to put their Prem struggles to one side and make most of the experience as they switch focus to European action.

The Red Bulls will begin their Challenge Cup campaign with a trip to face Lyon on Saturday (17:30 GMT).

Newcastle are regulars in Europe's secondary competition but have struggled in the last few years, winning only two of their last 12 games as they have failed to get out of their pool.

But head coach Alan Dickens wants his players to look at this as an opportunity rather than a hindrance.

"I think European rugby is brilliant," he said.

"It's a different experience for the players. We're a group who want to learn and grow together.

"Going away to a hostile environment in France with the learning and the travel can only stand us in good stead going forward. The experience is invaluable."

Dickens is a big advocate of the Challenge Cup, having won it twice with Northampton Saints - once as a player and then as part of the coaching staff.

Newcastle are one of only two English sides participating in the pool stages along with Exeter Chiefs and their director of rugby Rob Baxter has stated that he intends to mix and match his side before The Prem resumes later this month.

But for the Red Bulls, after six losses in the league, a new competition provides respite as they take on a Lyon side, currently 12th in France's Top 14.

There were good signs despite the 39-17 loss to Leicester Tigers on Friday and Dickens wants to try to build on those.

"Last week I could sense a lot of positivity from people after the game," he added.

"Yes, we were disappointed with the result. But did we create opportunities? Yes. Our lineout is something that we've talked out needing focus. Was that a plus? Yes.

"It's stepping stones - we are making little short steps, but I truly believe when we put all those facets together, we've got a good performance in us and we'll get the results that we've worked hard for."