Section Paloise vs Newcastle Falcons Prediction: Paloise will start their campaign on the right path

In round 1 of the Europe Challenge Cup, Section Paloise will play Newcastle Falcons at Stade du Hameau. Both teams are coming off a winning result. Which side wins this one?

Section Paloise returned to winning ways in the league and will eye a similar outcome. In a game that ended 29-15, Section Paloise won each half, with a 13-8 and 16-7 in the second half. However, this team lost four consecutive games prior to that win, coming against Stade Toulousain, Bordeaux Begles, Racing Metro 92, and Montpellier. Section Paloise have only two wins in their last seven games, one other against Castres Olympique in mid-October. 

Newcastle Falcons returned to winning ways in the league against Saracens and will hope to keep things running. In a game that ended 17-12, Newcastle Falcons started with a decisive 17-5 win, and despite losing 0-7 in the second half, their opponent could not overturn their lead. In the meantime, Newcastle Falcons picked up wins over Caldy, Doncaster and Sale Sharks in the Premiership Cup, heading into this game with four consecutive victories. 

Newcastle Falcons have shown they could be up for the task with their recent performances, but I am not convinced by the cup results. While the Section Paloise have struggled so much, this kind of competition demands more, and I expect them to give this game their all. Take a chance on Paloise with a handicap win at home, a game that should end with few goals.