Newcastle Red Bulls Snatch Dramatic 14-10 Victory Over Lions in Challenge Cup Thriller

Last-Gasp Try Seals Unlikely Victory for Struggling Newcastle

In a stunning upset at Kingston Park on 13 December 2025, Newcastle Red Bulls defeated the Lions 14-10 despite being dominated throughout the match in their EPCR Challenge Cup encounter. Prop Murray McCallum burrowed over in the 78th minute to seal the victory, leaving the South African side devastated after controlling most aspects of the game.

Context and Significance

The result carries particular significance given Newcastle’s struggles this season. Newcastle have won just one game this entire season prior to this match and are bottom of the English Premiership. Meanwhile, the Lions have struggled away from home, losing 15 of their last 17 away matches, a statistic that proved prophetic once again.

Match Details

Angelo Davids crossed for Lions three minutes in and Sam Francis added the extras before Alex Hearle grounded between the posts for Newcastle, with Boeta Chamberlain converting to tie the score. Francis sent the visitors back in front with a penalty, and Newcastle were handed a blow when Christian Wade was forced off in the 30th minute after being caught by Davids’ arm, who was sent to the sin bin.

The Lions had close to a dozen entries into Newcastle’s 22-metre area and dominated the physical exchanges but scored only one try, being stopped repeatedly by brave Newcastle defence and their own inability to be clinical.

Implications for the Campaign

With a second-half implosion against Benetton and now this loss, the Lions face serious questions as sides that lose their opening two games are very close to being out of the competition. For Newcastle, the victory represents a crucial confidence boost in what has been a difficult season, demonstrating that determination can overcome dominance in rugby’s unpredictable nature.