Scotland international Allister Hogg joins Newcastle

SCOTLAND forward Allister Hogg is leaving Edinburgh to join Newcastle Falcons in a two-year deal, it was confirmed last night. The 48-times-capped back-rower played his final game for the capital club yesterday as their slim hopes of squeezing into the Magners League were ended by a 37-28 at leaders Leinster.

Edinburgh made a brave last stand only to defied by a superb late surge from Leinster in a thrilling eight-try contest at the RDS. Edinburgh were leading with the four tries they needed for a bonus point but two late converted tries helped Leinster secure top spot in the final league table and home advantage in next weekend's semi-finals.

The result, coupled with Munster's bonus point 13-12 loss in Cardiff, sets up an intriguing all-Irish semi-final next Saturday, the day after Glasgow face Ospreys in Swansea in the first semi-final.

On the loss of Hogg, Edinburgh head coach Rob Moffat said: "Ally has opted to test himself in pastures new. He has had tough luck with injury this season but we wish him well and thank him for the commitment, leadership and rugby playing ability he has brought to the Edinburgh cause."

Hogg, 27, added: "I've enjoyed my eight years at Edinburgh. I've learned my trade here and played with a lot of great players in a good few teams. I am sad to go but I'm looking forward to the new challenge I'll face at Newcastle."