Tigers end seven-match losing run

Leicester Tigers beat Newcastle Red Bulls 24-19 in a tense match to pick up their first win of the season, ending a dismal run stretching back into last season.

Radwan scores on Newcastle return

Former Newcastle winger Adam Radwan, who moved to Leicester Tigers in January 2025 after eight and a half seasons at Newcastle, scored on his return to Kingston Park.

Ene opens scoring for Newcastle

Newcastle took the lead through Obi Ene's early score three minutes into his Premiership debut after the former Sale winger collected fly-half Brett Connon's cut-out pass.

Moli and Radwan put Tigers ahead

Hooker Samiuela Moli launched himself over at the back of a driving maul, then Radwan latched on to Freddie Steward's grubber kick to give Leicester a commanding lead.

McGuigan and Hurd extend Tigers lead

George McGuigan's pick-and-go enabled him to drive over from close range, then Will Hurd's quick tap let him barrel over to make it a two-score game with twelve minutes remaining.

Jordan scores but Newcastle fall short

Cameron Jordan went over with just under seven minutes left to pull the deficit back to five points, but Newcastle were eventually guilty of holding on as Leicester kicked to touch.

McFarland: we were not accurate enough

Newcastle director of rugby Dan McFarland said the team were full of effort and endeavour but were not accurate enough in key areas, particularly at set-piece in the first half.

“Unfortunately, we were not accurate enough in key areas - but that will grow.”

Parling: gritty and dogged performance

Leicester head coach Geoff Parling said the win was gritty and dogged with good defensive resolve, but acknowledged there is loads to improve on, especially accuracy at set-piece.

“Gritty and dogged. Defensively, some good resolve and they're going to break some teams this year with their quality attack and good speed.”