The Falcons knew they could still stay up after Leicester Tigers lost to Harlequins, but that feat would also require two bonus-point wins in their final two matches.

Newcastle never looked like delivering against Gloucester as the home side ran out a 28-19 winner.

Elsewhere, Exeter could have secured top spot against Sarries but instead bowed to a 38-7 humbling away from home.

Meanwhile, Northampton Saints boosted hopes of a play-off place by climbing back above Harlequins into fourth spot with a 38-10 demolition of Worcester Warriors.