Sale Sharks needed a late penalty to secure a narrow 32-29 win over Wasps in their first outing in the LV= Cup this season.

Both sides scored tries inside the opening 10 minutes, but it was two in quick succession from Will Helu that gave the visitors a slender advantage at half time.

However, Viliami Fihaki put the hosts ahead early in the second half with a quick sprint for the line, before Charlie Ingall forced his way over to build the lead.

Ed Jackson immediately cut the deficit, though, finding a gap in the Sale defence to dive over for Wasps' fourth try of the match.

Alex Lozowski kicked a penalty to briefly get Wasps back on level terms, but a late penalty from Nick Macleod sealed the win for the hosts.