Newcastle stroll into Shield semis

Newcastle strolled into the semi-final of the European Shield with a thumping 61-23 victory over Mont de Marsan - given a helping hand by some French indiscipline.

The 17th-minute dismissal of flanker Philippe Alaqui for a blatant punch allowed the home team the easiest of afternoons at Kingston Park. England manager Clive Woodward would have been delighted to see the withdrawal after an hour of international fly half Jonny Wilkinson who had kicked 17 points.

Alaqui was sent off for punching Gary Armstrong, having previously been suspected of gouging which resulted in scrum half Armstrong twice receiving treatment for a nasty eye injury. Newcastle had already scored the first of their tries through Liam Botham. Others followed at regular intervals with Dave Walder (2), Jamie Noon, Marius Hurter, Tom May, Gareth McLure and Armstrong all crossing the opposition line. Walder also kicked two conversions.