Sale Sharks delivered a dominant performance to crush Newcastle Falcons 57-5 in Salford, running in nine tries in a one-sided Premiership encounter. The result was sealed long before the final whistle, with Sale leading 31-0 at half-time after a relentless first-half display that left their visitors chasing shadows.
Tom Roebuck stole the show with a clinical hat-trick, underlining his growing reputation as one of the most promising finishers in English rugby. The winger’s electric pace and sharp movement proved too much for a fragile Newcastle defence, with his finishing touch capping off a near-perfect evening for the hosts.
Sale began in ruthless fashion as Rob du Preez crossed early, setting the tone for the night. Roebuck soon followed with his first try after slicing through the heart of the opposition defence. Hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, making his long-awaited return from injury, muscled over for Sale’s third before captain Ernst van Rhyn added the bonus-point try. Scotland international Arron Reed then struck just before the interval, racing onto a delicate Du Preez grubber to complete a five-try first half.
Although Newcastle managed a consolation score through Elliott Obatoyinbo early in the second half, Sale quickly reasserted their authority. Roebuck added his second with a gliding finish, while replacement Nathan Jibulu continued his impressive form by notching his third try in as many games. Jibulu then turned provider, sprinting clear and unselfishly setting up Reed for his second of the match.
The night ended fittingly when Roebuck powered over for his hat-trick try, sealing a statement victory for Sale. Despite missing the Curry twins, the Sharks showed their depth and attacking power, with several players staking strong claims for England selection ahead of the autumn internationals.
For Newcastle, the defeat marked a third consecutive loss in a difficult start to the season. Their defensive struggles continued, having now conceded 134 points across their opening fixtures. Despite flashes of effort, they were outclassed in every department by a Sale side full of confidence and attacking intent.
This emphatic victory gives Sale momentum and belief as they look to challenge for their first league title in nearly two decades, while Newcastle face a long road to recovery after another humbling night on the road.
