Falcons felled in France
Newcastle's hopes of reaching the Amlin Challenge Cup knockout stages were ended by a 21-13 loss away to Lyon.
Last Updated: 21/01/12 4:27pm
Struggling Newcastle's hopes of reaching the Amlin Challenge Cup knockout stages were ended by a 21-13 loss away to Lyon.
The Falcons led at the interval but conceded two tries in seven minutes late in the second half, leaving them to focus on addressing their abysmal league form.
Europe's second-tier competition had been a welcome distraction for Newcastle, but they fell behind early on at the Matmut Stadium when wing Mosese Ratuvou crossed for a try, with Welshman Lee Thomas converting.
However, Newcastle replied following a fine break from Mark Wilson, which set up field position and allowed Redford Pennycook to race clear from a ruck and touchdown.
Falcons fly-half Jimmy Gopperth then put the visitors in front for the first time with a penalty, and he extended their lead by kicking another three-pointer early in the second half.
But that would be Newcastle's final points of the game, and Lyon assumed control on 66 minutes when they were awarded a penalty try, which was converted by Romain Loursac.
The jig was up for the Aviva Premiership's bottom club when Laurent Tranier came off the bench to cross for his side's third try, ensuring Lyon ended their first European campaign with a win.
