SARugbymag.co.za looks back at the English Premiership, French Top 14 and Celtic Pro12 matches played this weekend.

Bok fullback Willie le Roux’s Wasps debut ended in defeat as the Premiership log trendsetters slumped to a shock 34-28 loss against the Sale Sharks on Sunday. The hosts made a perfect start as they opened up a commanding 24-9 lead at the break.

Wasps’ quality came through after the interval as they launched a comeback with two quick tries, including one from captain Ashley Johnson. Le Roux then came off the bench and had the crowd on their feet with dazzling run which led to a try for Kurtley Beale. But in the end, Wasps’ best efforts weren’t enough, as Sale held on for an important victory.

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In the only other Premiership match on Sunday, the Newcastle Falcons claimed a stunning 46-31 bonus-point victory over favourites Northampton Saints. Former Sharks hooker Kyle Cooper scored one of Newcastle’s seven tries.

Elsewhere in Europe, Rory Kockott’s Castres defeated Bordeaux 29-17 to move up to third in the French Top 14 standings.

Meanwhile in the Celtic Pro12, reigning champions Connacht edged the Newport Gwent Dragons 14-9.

WEEKEND RESULTS

English Premiership (Round 15):

Wasps 28 Sale Sharks 34
Newcastle Falcons 46 Northampton Saints 31

French Top 14 (Round 18):

Bordeaux 17 Castres 29
Montpellier vs Toulouse (Sunday night)

Celtic Pro12 (Round 15):

Connacht 14 Newport Gwent Dragons 9

Photo: English Premiership