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Farrell's boot the difference in Philly

By Matthew Scott
Saracens star Owen Farrell

Owen Farrell's laser-like kicking accuracy secured Saracens' 29-7 win over the Newcastle Falcons in Philadelphia.

The match was played at Talen Energy Stadium, the home of MLS side Philadelphia Union, as Premiership chiefs try to boost rugby union's popularity in the United States. It is one of four Stateside contests, however there was not quite as much touchdown action as the local fans may have been used to.

Chris Wyles' try opened the scoring, which was then cancelled out by Vereniki Goneva's score. Farrell and Joel Hodgson converted both, but it was the England flyhalf who dominated the game from there on from the tee as Newcastle's ill-discipline haunted them.

Farrell knocked over two penalties before the interval and three further unanswered efforts split the posts in the second half.

Sarries' dominance was reflected by a heavier scoreline late on as Goneva batted away a pass to concede a penalty try as the European champions picked up a second win of the Premiership season.

For Newcastle:

Try: Goneva

Con: Hodgson

For Saracens:

Tries: Wyles, penalty try

Con: Farrell

Pens: Farrell 5