Newcastle Falcons were grateful for the kicking of academy starlet Rob Miller after a narrow 20-14 European Challenge Cup win over Overmach Parma.

Tries from Danny Williams and John Rudd secured the win but the Falcons had 19-year-old Miller to thank as he booted 10 points.

The vital Pool Four win keeps the Guinness Premiership side's quarter-final hopes alive following the triumph at Stadio XXV Aprile.

Miller kicked two penalties and two conversions to press him claim as a long-term replacement for injured fly-half Jonny Wilkinson.

Scottish number 10 Barry Irvine booted Parma into a surprise lead before Newcastle took a 13-6 advantage at the break when right wing Williams' crossed in the 30th minute.

But the Italians hit back through Roberto Quartaroli's second half try before replacement Rudd came to the Falcons' rescue with a 64th-minute touch down.

Miller's conversion had the final say and the away win leaves Newcastle just one point behind Brive.