But an experienced Falcons side proved a bridge too far for Saracens - however back-rower Wray believes the experience can make them stronger going forward.

He said: "The final was always going to be a big ask with ten minute halves. Newcastle came out quickly but we knew there was time to come back into it.

"We aren't a team who lets their heads go down and even though we conceded two tries we fought back and I think that's testament to the good players we've got. We did the club proud with how much we worked.

"We played them last year in the final and it was a very tight game and could have gone either way, and it was the same thing this year."

"Even though we didn't win, we are a very strong team and we know what it's like to lose now and we hate losing. We are proud of what we did as a club."