Hawks edge out Mavericks in closely contested encounter

HENLEY HAWKS 1sts went down to a 38-21 Maidenhead and District League Premier Division defeat against PINK ANGELS last week.

The first quarter was closely fought, with Hawks matching Pink Angels’ intensity across the court. An interception late in the quarter gave Pink Angels a two-goal advantage.

The second quarter continued to be evenly matched, with both teams working hard for every goal. However, a single misplaced pass allowed Pink Angels to extend their lead, heading into half-time three goals up.

Pink Angels built momentum after the break, scoring several goals in succession to open up an eight-goal lead.

Hawks continued to battle and showed moments of quality, but Pink Angels’ accuracy proved decisive. In the final quarter, Pink Angels converted consistently from all areas of the circle to secure the win by
17 goals.

In Division 1, HENLEY HAWKS 2nds ran out 25-22 winners against MAVERICKS in a closely contested match. The opening quarter saw both teams evenly matched, with possession largely shared from centre passes. Mavericks held a narrow one-goal lead at the end of the first quarter.

Hawks continued to apply pressure in the second quarter and were rewarded when an interception was converted, bringing the scores level by half-time.

Hawks raised their intensity in the third quarter, denying Mavericks time and space and forcing errors across the court. This pressure paid off as Hawks moved ahead for the first time in the match, building a four-goal lead going into the final quarter.

The last quarter was tightly contested, with the game flowing end to end and Mavericks working hard to close the gap. Hawks showed composure and resilience to stay just out of reach and see out the win.

In Division 3, HENLEY HAWKS 3rds lost out 17-12 to TIGERS in challenging wet conditions. Tigers made a fast start and built an early lead, finishing the first quarter six goals ahead.

Hawks responded well in the second quarter, increasing the pace and tightening their play to reduce the deficit. At half-time, Tigers still held a five-goal lead.

The third quarter was evenly matched, with both teams struggling to maintain possession due to the conditions. Turnovers were frequent and neither side was able to extend their advantage, meaning the goal difference remained unchanged.

Henley Hawks’ efforts were rewarded with a bonus point, while Tigers’ result saw them move to the top of the table with other teams not playing.