Sharks take bite before play-offs

SAM James scored twice as Sale Sharks warmed up for the Gallagher Premiership play-offs by dispatching Newcastle Falcons 54-12 in the final week of the regular season.

The hosts went behind early but responded comprehensively, running in eight tries at the AJ Bell Stadium, which will play host to Sharks’ semifinal clash with Leicester Tigers next Sunday.

The visitors arrived knowing they would prop up the table regardless of the outcome but made the stronger start, and crossed for the afternoon’s opening score when Pedro Rubiolo crashed over following neat footwork from Elliott Obatoyinbo.

Brett Connon’s conversion gave Newcastle an early 7-0 lead but the home side hit back five minutes later, Tom Roebuck catching George Ford’s up-and-under kick and racing in unchallenged from the 22-metre line.