The penalty attempt hits the crossbar and Socino is there to pounce to score the opening try

Early penalty goes the way of the Falcons and they will kick for goal

Hodgson gets the match underway for Newcastle

A moment of silence in honour of Joost van der Westhuizen who sadly passed away on Monday

Teams are out on the field, kick off is just moments away

The Sale Sharks host he Newcastle Falcons in round 14 of the Premiership.
Sale has won just three and drawn one of their 13 matches to languish in 10th position in the standings.
Newcastle has recorded six victories from their 13 games and currently sit 9th in the table, nine points ahead of their opponents.