Table-topping Henley Hawks hit back to sink Windsor in battle of top two

HENLEY HAWKS 1sts ran out 34-29 winners in their top-two Premier Division clash against WINDSOR in the Maidenhead and District League.

Windsor started strongly in the opening quarter, with their shooters in clinical form and their defensive unit making life difficult for Hawks in the circle. By the end of the first quarter Windsor had built a six-goal advantage.

The second quarter was a much tighter affair, with both sides matching each other goal for goal. Hawks found a way to break through Windsor’s defensive pressure, with Sammy Johnston-Coff and George Robertson working tirelessly in attack to feed shooters Alex Jacob and Katie Bayfield. Their efforts helped Hawks claw back a single goal, narrowing the deficit to five at half-time.

The third quarter saw a shift in momentum, with Sarah Filby, Lydia Johnston-Coff, and Chanti Stubbs applying relentless defensive pressure to disrupt Windsor’s rhythm.

Key interceptions and turnovers allowed Hawks to push forward, and with Jacob and Bayfield converting their chances, the game was all square by the end of the third quarter.

The last quarter saw Windsor falter under pressure, making errors. Hawks seized the opportunity, showing composure and control in attack, with Robertson and Johnston-Coff maintaining movement and smart feeds into the circle.

Emma Robinson made an impact, adding energy to the defensive effort. A few crucial goals saw Hawks pull ahead, securing a hard-fought victory and cementing their place at the top of the table. Meanwhile the derby Division 2 clash between HENLEY HAWKS 2nds and HENLEY HAWKS 3rds ended in a 32-32 draw.

Hawks 3rds came flying out of the blocks, settling into their rhythm early and building a four-goal cushion with some sharp shooting and fluid attacking play. Their defensive unit also made life difficult for Hawks 2nds, forcing errors and capitalising on turnovers to take the early advantage. However, Hawks 2 were not to be outdone as the second quarter saw them shift momentum, thanks to a series of well-timed interceptions and composed play through court. By half-time, they had clawed their way back, trailing by just two goals.

Hawks 3rds responded well after the break, rallying together and restoring a six-goal lead. Their midcourt worked tirelessly to transition the ball swiftly into attack, while their defensive combinations disrupted Hawks 2nds’ flow, making them work hard for every opportunity.

As the final quarter began, Hawks 2nds were determined to fight back and their relentless pressure and smart decision-making saw them slowly chip away at the lead, eventually bringing the scores level.

The closing minutes were an end-to-end battle, with both teams searching for a winner, but the match finished all square.

Henley 2nds remain in the chase for a top-two finish, holding a crucial game in hand.