Sharp shooting helps Henley Hawks ease to comfortable league victory

HENLEY HAWKS 5ths wrapped up the first half of the Maidenhead and District League Division 3 season in style as they defeated BLUE MAGNETS 37-14.

Hawks came out firing, immediately disrupting the Magnets’ rhythm with tight, intelligent defending across the court. Turnovers were converted and the attacking unit settled quickly, allowing Hawks to take control early. Their sharp start earned them a solid five-goal advantage at the first break.

The second quarter saw Hawks take complete command of the game. Defensive pressure remained relentless, feeding quick transitions into attack.

In the shooting circle the Hawks barely missed a chance and piled on the goals. By half-time, Hawks had built a 13-goal cushion.

After the break, Hawks continued to grow into the match. The team moved the ball with fluency, linking seamlessly from defence to attack. Consistent scoring and calm decision-making kept Magnets on the back foot, with Hawks extending their lead and controlling the pace.

In the final quarter, Hawks maintained their intensity, closing out the game with the same composure they’d shown throughout.

The win cements Hawks’ third-placed position, just one point behind Vixens as they head into the second half of the season. HENLEY HAWKS U13s produced a determined performance on Sunday in their sixth league fixture despite going down
34-24 against a strong WOODLEY WHITE U13s side.

The match was tightly contested throughout, with both teams displaying impressive skill and resilience across all four quarters.

Henley started brightly with strong defensive pressure from Kitty Lawrence and Sadie Roberts, which helped the Hawks edge ahead 10-8 at the first break.

Woodley responded well, applying pressure in the mid-court and capitalising on turnovers to take the second quarter 14-13.

Henley’s Grace Stammers and Daisy Goforth worked tirelessly to keep the game flowing, but Woodley held a narrow one-goal lead at half-time.

Woodley extended their advantage in a high-energy third quarter, pulling ahead 25-19. Despite the scoreline, Henley’s attacking combination of Amelie Woodhouse, Soraya Stender and Mabel Reed-Ryan continued to link well, supported by good rotation and fresh legs from eighth player Sienna Cotton.

Henley saved their best for last as slick feeding into the circle and confident shooting saw the Hawks win the final quarter as they went down 34-24.

Henley’s players of the match were Daisy Goforth and Soraya Stender.