London Wasps lose to Newcastle Falcons

London Wasps unfortunately lost their opening Zurich Premiership game 24-17 to the Newcastle Falcons. London Wasps scored two tries, one from fullback Josh Lewsey, the other from centre Mark Denny, but it was the brilliance of Jonny Wilkinson, which provided the win for the Falcons. Wilkinson slotted eight out of nine penalties to sink London Wasps and set up the win.

London Wasp first try was set up in the 20th minute when former Wales captain Rob Howley, signed during the summer and making his first start in the Zurich Premiership, broke from the back of a scrum and sped upfield before <1> offloading to Lewsey who went over for the try.

London Wasps trailed 9-7 at the break but were left without Josh Lewsey who pick up an injury (which will be scanned on Monday) and forced him out for the second half.

London Wasps despite being behind after more Wilkinson penalties were playing all out attacking rugby, the home pack struggling up front giving London Wasps a steady stream of possession.

Lawrence Dallaglio was sin-binned for a professional foul and unfortunately this allowed Newcastle to took full advantage by forcing another couple of penalties, which Wilkinson converted.

Alex King kicked three points deep into injury time to earn London Wasps a bonus point but it was not enough as the side went down 24-17.