Newcastle's European Challenge Cup game against Toulon cancelled

The fourth round European Challenge Cup game between Newcastle and Toulon to be played at Stade Felix Mayol on Saturday has been cancelled due to positive cases in the Falcons squad.

According to a statement released by the Falcons, the squad had returned nine positive cases in the latest round of testing following their last week's trip to Biarritz.

Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards expressed disappointment over the news but insisted that the right decision was made taking into account the safety of the players.

"It is bitterly disappointing news because we had been looking forward to this important fixture between the two unbeaten teams in our group," said Richards.

"We understand it will be frustrating for those supporters who were planning to travel out to France, or who had already done so, as well as those looking forward to watching on TV.

"We have taken on board all the relevant advice from Public Health England, and unfortunately it just wasn't possible for us to fly out to France and play the game in a safe manner."

Meanwhile, a Match Result Resolution Committee will be convened to determine the outcome of the game.

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We regret to announce that tomorrow's EPCR Challenge Cup fixture between RC Toulon and Newcastle Falcons has been cancelled.

Following last week's trip to Biarritz, the Falcons have recorded nine positive Covid-19 tests.
https://t.co/8oejB1sr3H pic.twitter.com/P4BzdOwTSB

— Newcastle Falcons (@FalconsRugby) January 21, 2022

Newcastle Falcons are at second position in Pool A with two wins from as many games while Toulon with 10 points are at the top of the group.