The fly-half showed no ill effects from Februarys neck and shoulder operation as he scored a try and kicked five conversions and a penalty in Newcastles 46-17 friendly win over Pertemps Bees at Kingston Park.

Wilkinson, who played a total of 100 minutes in two pre-season games in Ireland, now hopes to be fit for next weeks Premiership opener at Worcester.

Falcons director of rugby Rob Andrew said: All of the pre-season has been good for him physically.

He did 40 minutes against Connacht, 60 against Munster and now a full game, so hes looking pretty sharp.

Semo Sititi also crossed on his home debut and youngster Matthew Tait claimed a try on his second first-team appearance at the ground.

Joe Shaw, Michael Stephenson and Ed Williamson scored the Falcons other tries. Shaun Woof and Paul Knight replied for the Bees.