'World-class' Wilkinson lauded

Jonny Wilkinson has been hailed as "world-class" after providing the inspiration for Newcastle's stirring 26-21 victory against Guinness Premiership leaders Bristol.

England's 2003 World Cup hero had until Friday night spent eight weeks on the sidelines with a medial knee ligament injury but he played the full 80 minutes to help the struggling Falcons to victory.

The fly-half, who has not played for England since the 2003 World Cup final against Australia, claimed 11 points in an impressive display which left Newcastle director of rugby John Fletcher delighted. "We don't have that many world-class players but he is special - he makes the team tick," Fletcher said.

"He is battered and bruised but has come through fine," added Fletcher.

Bristol head coach Richard Hill could not hide his admiration for Wilkinson, who has been cruelly dogged by injury since his famous drop-goal saw England crowned world champions in Sydney three years ago.

Hill said: "Not bad for someone coming back from such a long layoff. You could see he was enjoying himself."

Wilkinson played a key role for the Falcons as first-half tries from Mathew Tait, Matt Thompson and Brent Wilson laid the platform for their success.

Bristol hit back to claim a bonus point with second-half tries from Lee Robinson and Dan Ward-Smith, while Jason Strange matched Wilkinson's 11 point-haul with the boot.

Bristol's bonus point ensured they remained top of the Premiership above defending champions Sale, who beat Wasps 18-12 at Edgeley Park.