Newcastle Falcons fight back to beat Newport Gwent Dragons

Newcastle Falcons came from behind in the second half to secure a 30-26 win over Newport Gwent Dragons in the European Rugby Challenge Cup this evening.

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The hosts stormed ahead in the first half, with Matthew Pewtner, Taulupe Faletau and Ashley Smith all crossing the try line before half time to leave Newport seven points up at the break.

Lee Smith went over shortly before the break for the visitors as they tried to keep themselves in contention, while Rory Clegg kicked two penalties.

Newcastle dominated the opening 10 minutes of the second spell, with Mark Wilson sprinting over less than a minute after the restart, before Will Witty leapt over to give the Falcons the lead.

Tom Prydie took over the kicking duties, and cut the gap to a single point with two penalties, but Smith added three more through the posts late on to put the win beyond doubt for the visitors.