Harlequins gained revenge for their English Cup final defeat with a last-gasp penalty kick from Ireland A out-half Paul Burke to beat Newcastle in their Premiership clash at windy Kingston Park last night.

Newcastle's decision to play into a strong wind looked to have backfired when Harlequins, led up front by Ireland captain Keith Wood, moved into an 18-3 lead after 36 minutes. But a superb try from winger Gareth MacLure sent the Falcons in just 18-10 down at half-time.

David Walder and Burke exchanged penalties early in the second half before Walder knocked over three more to put Newcastle ahead 22-21. In another thrilling finish, Burke edged Harlequins ahead with a penalty in the 80th minute after Stuart Grimes and Darren O'Leary tangled off the ball.

Leicester, without the injured Geordan Murphy, extended their lead to 15 points with a 24-12 victory over Sale.