PROP Jon Golding believes Newcastle Falcons' forward-line is close to becoming a real force in the Guinness Premiership.

Golding forms part of the Falcons pack which heads to Vicarage Road tomorrow for the televised clash against Saracens.

The 25-year-old starts on the loose head side for a much-improved Falcons eight, but one still striving for that all-important victory.

"It's frustrating, because we feel like we've sorted out a lot of issues up front and we're so close to turning that improvement in to results," said the former Rotherham man, who will be in a side that sees two changes - scrum half James Grindal comes in for Lee Dickson, while Brent Wilson replaces Geoff Parling on the blindside flank.

"All round we were pretty happy with the pack last Sunday, although there are always things you can do better.

"The scrums and line outs have been going well, but we need to finish them off more effectively, like turning a good driving maul into a scoring driving maul.

"Everything is there in place, we just need to start winning games, keep doing what we're doing and believe in ourselves.

"We're building a really strong base now in the forwards, getting used to each other and really trying to make an impression. It's not a backs versus forwards issue at all, we're very united as a club and it's just a case of getting us across the finishing line in these close games."

With the arrival of All Black Carl Hayman signalling the Falcons' intent up front, Golding said: "Carl coming in doesn't mean a huge amount of change to my own game, it's just a case of another good player being at the club.

"We are blessed at the moment with some great props like Davey Wilson, Micky Ward, Carl Hayman, Joe McDonnell, Johnny Williams and everyone coming through the academy, so from a propping point of view there is a lot of competition for places which can only be good for the team.

"He's a big man and a great scrummager, who is going to give this club a lot of joy, but he is only part of what is a great team effort - everyone plays a big part and we have good players throughout the pack."

Renowned for his bullocking carries around the park, Golding said: "I do enjoy the ball-carrying side of things, and at times I wish I was a back!

"I love to charge around and get my hands on the ball as much as I can, but I know that's only part of the job description at prop and that I have to take care of the bread and butter stuff first and foremost."

Looking forward to what will be a bruising encounter up front against a Sarries side unbeaten in its last six at home, Golding spoke of the confidence in the Newcastle camp.

"Saracens are a good team and in fantastic form, but I truly believe we can go there and win," he said.