Newcastle end 25-match losing streak

Newcastle ended their 25-match losing streak by defeating Exeter 24-18 in the English Premiership on Friday, registering a first win since March 2023.

Despite falling behind to an early Exeter try from Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Newcastle responded with tries from Philip van der Walt and two either side of the break from Jamie Blamire.

Ethan Grayson's second-half drop goal gave Newcastle some breathing space before Josh Hodge scored a late try for Exeter.

"I'm delighted," said Newcastle rugby director Steve Diamond. "The monkey's off the club's back of the longest run of losses.

"We're trying to build something, it's taking time, but the job in hand is to put on performances like that at home. Away from home, sometimes we'll struggle with the squad we've got, but at home that's what I expect."

Northampton bounced back from defeat to Leicester last weekend by routing Sale 47-17 with Ollie Sleightholme scoring two of their seven tries.

Six of the tries came in the first half as Saints racked up an 18th consecutive home victory.