Hawks turn up the heat

Team.

Haigh, Puttick, R.Johnson, Ward, James, Dawes, Sharp, Wilkinson, Granger, Scrimshaw (c), Firth, Owen, Malthouse, Cadogan, Bruce.

Subs: Sunter & R.Cole.

Scorers.

Tries: Wilkinson (2), Scrimshaw, & Bruce.

Cons: Scrimshaw.

Star Players: Carter Haigh/Rondene Johnson

On a sweltering afternoon and with a number of absentees, the Hawks entertained a dangerous Selby side.

Both sides looked to play open rugby and use their speedy backs. Jake Firth thought he’d scored only for his foot to be deemed in touch after a terrific dash from halfway and a good last ditch tackle. Olly Scrimshaw looked dangerous in possession and made a number of breaks without the finish they deserved. After a controlled catch and drive, the outstanding Matthew Wilkinson took control of the ball to scythe through untouched, Scrimshaw converted.

Selby had their best spell in the game, scoring three tries to open up a 12 point lead. The Hawks creating their own problems with a combination of poor ball control and tired defence.

With half time looming, Scrimshaw attacked from a scrum 30 metres out, dummying his way over for a great try. Heath had ended the half well, halftime 12-19.

Eddie Sunter replaced Max Dawes in the back-row for a well deserved rest. The Hawks started well, controlling the ball much better and playing in the right areas. The whole pack worked tirelessly, spearheaded by joint star players, Carter Haigh and Rondene Johnson who carried superbly with no rest available. Brook Ward, Emlyn James and Mark Puttick used their experience to control the ruck speed and push the home team forward. Centres, Tom Owen and Jack Malthouse were starting to push their noses through the defence, with Firth and Phil Cadogan unlucky not to score.

After another good phase of back play, Bruce collected the final pass to score in the corner. Harry Granger continued to organise and supply good attacking ball which drew penalties and kept the pressure on the visitors. From a good catch and drive, Wilkinson went through the middle of the ruck to score his second and nudge the Hawks in front. Shortly afterwards, Johnson thought he’d sealed the win only for the referee to deem a double movement.

As time ticked down, Scrimshaw collided with the barriers and was unable to continue, Richard Cole replacing him for the the last few minutes. Heath showed their spirit when under the cosh, frantically repelling a number of raids and happy to see a drop ball bring the game to an end.

Full time 22-19.

This was a great game against a young, competitive team who pushed all the way to the final minutes. Hawks return to league action next week against Sandal at home.