Hawks swoop for league victory

HENLEY HAWKS 1sts delivered a commanding performance as they defeated BLACK MAGIC 42-23 in their latest Maidenhead and District League Premier Division clash.

Hawks opened strongly with their defensive unit applying pressure, denying Black Magic time and space and forcing early turnovers. Slick attacking play and accurate shooting saw Hawks establish a healthy lead by the end of the first quarter.

Hawks maintained high intensity through the mid-court in the second quarter, moving the ball at pace and finding their shooters with ease. Black Magic worked hard to disrupt the flow, but Hawks’ consistency allowed them to extend their advantage heading into half-time.

Hawks showcased some of their best netball of the match after half-time. Their transitions were sharp, the defensive circle dominated rebounds and the attacking circle converted opportunities clinically as Hawks widened the gap further.

The final quarter saw Hawks finish strongly as they kept their structure, protected possession, and continued to apply pressure across the court to run out winners by
19 goals.

In Division 2, HENLEY HAWKS 3rds defeated GENESIS 44-22. Henley showed real intent from the first whistle. Their attacking unit settled quickly, moving the ball through the court and converting opportunities with precision. By the end of the first quarter, Hawks had established a seven-goal advantage, setting the tone for a strong performance.

The second quarter saw Genesis tighten their defence and they began to apply pressure, forcing errors and capitalising on turnovers. Although Hawks continued to work hard across the court, Genesis edged ahead in the quarter, pulling one goal back. At half-time, Hawks still held six-goal lead. After the break Hawks regained full control. The third quarter was highlighted by some fine passages of play as the Hawks extended their lead once more.

In the final quarter, the Hawks kept possession well and continued to build on their advantage. Genesis fought hard throughout and stayed close enough to secure the bonus point, but Hawks ran out comfortable winners by 22 goals.

In Division 4, HENLEY HAWKS 4ths picked up a bonus points as they slipped to a narrow 26-21 defeat to SLOUGH SIRENS.

The opening quarter set the tone for a tight, low-scoring contest. Both teams displayed exceptional defensive pressure, forcing errors and making every goal hard-earned.

The second quarter continued in the same vein with Hawks producing good defensive play. Their circle defenders were relentless, picking off loose balls and limiting Sirens’ scoring opportunities. Although trailing at half-time, Hawks remained in the contest through sheer teamwork and resilience.

After the break, strong drives through the mid-court and patient build-up play allowed Hawks to create good shooting opportunities. The defence continued to shine, making it difficult for Sirens to extend their lead. In the final quarter, Hawks pushed all the way. They fought hard for every ball and kept the pressure on Sirens until the last whistle. Their collective effort ensured the margin stayed within range, earning them a valuable bonus point for being within five goals.

In Division 3, HENLEY HAWKS 5ths ran out 27-17 winners against 7 STARS.

A tight and competitive opening quarter saw both teams matching each other goal for goal. Hawks settled well in defence, turning over key balls, and kept their composure in attack. Their focus paid off as they edged ahead 5-4 at the first quarter.

Hawks lifted their intensity in the second quarter. Quick mid-court connections and confident shooting created a surge of momentum, allowing them to pull away from
7 Stars. The defensive unit continued to apply pressure, limiting scoring opportunities for their opponents. By half-time, Hawks had built a 14-7 lead.

Strong drives, accurate feeding, and disciplined defending ensured Hawks’ advantage stayed firmly in their favour in the third quarter as they led 19-12.

In the last quarter, Hawks continued to apply pressure, convert turnovers and keep possession steady to triumph by 10 goals.