Hogg signs deal with Newcastle

Allister Hogg has signed a two-year deal at Newcastle Falcons, bringing an eight-year stint with Edinburgh to an end.

The Scotland forward has been plagued by injuries this campaign and had not featured since December before tonight's defeat to Leinster.

"I've enjoyed my eight years with Edinburgh. I've learned my trade here and played with a lot of great players in a good few teams," Hogg said in a statement released by the club.

"I am sad to go but I'm looking forward to the new challenge I'll face at Newcastle. Obviously I'll be playing in a different competition and I hope the move will help to improve me as a player.

"I thank all the Edinburgh players, coaches, staff and fans, for all their support over the years."

Tonight's game was Hogg's 138th for Edinburgh and head coach Rob Moffat is sorry to see the 27-year-old go.

He 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 since he joined us in 2002."

However, Ross Rennie has signed a new deal with the capital club.

The 24-year-old, who won his only cap for Ireland two years, has put pen to pare on a two-year contract at Murrayfield.