While his team-mates throwing insisted on chaotic, frantic offloads, Harry Randall delivered a spectacular scrum-half performance which will cause Steve Borthwick to take notice.
Bristol centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg said: "We knew Newcastle away first up was going to be a tough proposition and it was, with them making the contest very scrappy. Credit to the boys for sticking to what we've been doing in pre-season to come away with five points.
"We want to continue our momentum from the end of last season. I have a lot of belief in this team and feel we can go all the way."
In a battle of largely attack against defence, Bristol could have scored more than their four tries if it wasn't for playing at a relentless pace that led to multiple knock ons forced by Harlem Globetrotter-esque play from the Bears which was often one pass too many.
However, Randall provided consistency, composure and crisp passing, while also proving a constant threat to the Falcons defence with his sniping from the ruck. And his box kicking has advanced to a new level.
Pat Lam's side have struggled to find an identity after their semi-final run in 2020 but returned to their free flowing roots from the off, keeping the ball alive by shifting play to their galloping wings Ratu Naulago and Gabriel Ibitoye.
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