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.

“It’s nice to get the monkey off the back, and the lads really deserve it,” said Newcastle rugby director Steve Diamond

“It’s only one win so nobody is going overboard, but I do think it’s a significant turning point for this club.

“Some of the stuff that has been written and said about us this week is pretty disrespectful, to be honest – questioning what is the point of the club.

“We’re not going to shut all of those people up with one win, but what it does do is give everyone that real belief that what we’re doing is the right thing.

“There’s no reactionary culture here and we’ve been doing the same things on a consistent basis in terms of our training and not dragging guys in on their day off. We’ve had a plan and we’re sticking to it, and I’m delighted for the lads because they’re a great group to work with.”

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.

Impressive centre George Freeman scored in the third minute as they raced out to a 31-10 victory.

Former Waratah James Ramm then closed out the win on the hour mark to seal the full points.