James Goode has extended his stay with the Falcon's until the end of the season

Newcastle Falcons have completed a transfer deadline day swoop for Ospreys second-rower James Goode and experienced No.8 Adam Balding on loan until the end of the season.

Goode, 29, who was part of the Grand Slam winning Wales under-21s team of 2003, burst onto the scene with his hometown club Cardiff Blues. Making 15 appearances for the Blues, the renowned line-out specialist earned himself a move to Air New Zealand Cup side Manawatu Turbos in 2007.

Goode enjoyed three successful seasons down under before the 6ft 7” 17st 8lb forward returned to his native Wales, with the Ospreys in November 2009.

Balding has represented England at both Saxons and Sevens level, is a product of the Leicester Tigers academy and went on to win four Premiership titles and two Heineken Cups with the Welford Road club.

In 2004 the Coventry-born forward, 32, moved to Gloucester and after a string of impressive performances he became club captain for the Cherry and Whites. Re-joining the Falcons after a successful stint with the club during the 2008-09 season, the 6ft 2” 17st 5lb lynchpin moved to Worcester Warriors in February 2010 on a two-year deal.

“I’m looking forward to the move to Newcastle, a club that I know well and have fond memories from my previous time in the north east,” said Balding. “I’m fit, injury free and determined to make a big impression. I’m keen to get up to Newcastle and do my best before the end of the season.