Newcastle turning heads with second big win

Newly promoted Newcastle Falcons are making waves in the Premiership after completing the first two rounds of the tournament unbeaten.

They kicked off their campaign by surprising many when they put Bath to the sword 19-12 in Round 1. Then, yesterday, Dean Richards’ charges did the unthinkable and pulled off a win against competition heavyweights Sale Sharks.

It was a low-scoring game but the Falcons continue to impress with their obtrusive physicality and gritty determination.

The win elevates them to second place on the overall standings with 8 points. They lie behind log-leaders and defending champions Exeter Chiefs.

Newcastle drew first blood with a penalty five minutes in and kept Sale under pressure which saw the latter receive a yellow card for repeated infringements. Newcastle made the most of their subsequent numerical advantage and scored a try shortly before the break to enjoy a 10-0 lead.

Sale looked to hit a new gear in the second stanza and knocked over two penalties. With just under 10 minutes left on the clock, Sale took the lead with a try to make it 13-10 and it looked like they would clinch it come the final whistle. However, a nail-biting finish was on the cards.

After the final hooter, the Falcons’ attack paid off as scrumhalf Micky Young popped an adventurous little kick over the top for centre Toby Flood to pounce on to give his team a fantastic win.

Newcastle have definitely put their hands up as serious competitors this season. They face another tough challenge in the form of Wasps in Round 3.