Henley Hawks Women 24 – 7 Launceston
By Lisa Tavinor
Henley Hawks Women produced an impressive all-round performance on Sunday, securing a well-deserved 24–7 home victory over Launceston and claiming a valuable bonus point in the process.
From the opening whistle, Henley showed intent, combining strong attacking play with a physical defensive performance. The Hawks made the perfect start, putting Launceston under immediate pressure with powerful carries from Dani Willmore and Holly Hallett. A strong attacking platform allowed Nyamedo Addae-Dapaah to find space and break through to score the opening try. The conversion narrowly missed, leaving Henley 5–0 ahead.
Launceston looked to respond with a physical approach, but Henley's defensive organisation was much improved, with excellent double tackles, strong hits and determined work at the breakdown. Chante Williams, Charlotte Gisbourne (Gizzy), Darcy Hacke-Woods and Jemima Sewery were among those putting in important defensive shifts, while Willmore continued to make her presence felt across the pitch with outstanding carries and a relentless work rate.
Henley continued to enjoy territory and possession, keeping Launceston pinned in their own half for long periods. A Henley lineout provided the platform for Gianna Noble-Cunningham (Dr G) to power through several tackles before offloading to Ellie Farwell, who showed excellent footwork to dance her way over the try line. The conversion was successful. Just before half-time, Launceston responded with a try of their own, taking the score to 12–7 at the break.
The second half saw Henley pick up where they had left off. Good handling and improved attacking combinations created space, with Sewery making a sharp break before Calleigh Rudman stepped back inside and Hacke-Woods carried strongly over the line to ensure the home side were first to score in the second half. Henley extended their lead to 17–7.
The Hawks were now playing with confidence, and the next score was just around the corner. Hannah Pearce made a huge impact from the bench, making good ground through Launceston's defence, while Addae-Dapaah and Sinead Skillin continued to cause problems for the visitors. With Henley once again camped close to the Launceston line, some controlled phases of play created the opportunity for Freya Gracie to finish off a well-worked attack. The conversion was successful, taking the score to 24–7 and securing the all-important bonus point.
Launceston tried to fight their way back into the game, but Henley's defensive resolve remained strong. The final quarter saw the Hawks put in some particularly impressive defensive work, with Farwell producing a huge hit, Willmore bringing down the winger and Williams continuing to deliver powerful tackles. Pheadra Cocks also made her presence felt with a big defensive contribution as the team worked tirelessly to close down every attacking opportunity that Launceston delivered.
As the clock ticked down, Launceston continued to search for a way through, but Henley refused to give an inch. The final moments were tense, with the Hawks having to defend once more before winning a crucial turnover to bring the game to a close.
The final whistle confirmed a deserved 24–7 victory, a bonus point secured and plenty of positives to take forward.
There was an extra reason to celebrate, as Dani Willmore earned her 50th cap for Henley Rugby Club. This is a fantastic milestone and one the whole club is incredibly proud of. Willmore marked the occasion in fitting style, delivering a typically committed performance, leading from the front with powerful carries, strong defence and an outstanding work rate throughout. Congratulations, Dani Willmore, on reaching this fantastic milestone – here's to many more appearances in the Hawks shirt!
Overall, this was a strong team performance from the women's team, demonstrating improved structure, better defensive organisation and a real determination to work for one another. The attacking opportunities were taken when they mattered, while the defensive effort ensured Launceston were kept to just seven points.
Coaches Player (sponsored by Rhys Murrary photography) - Amber Robson sponsored by Matt Muston
Forward of the match - Sophie Underwood, still available for sponsor
Back of the match - Hannah Pearce sponsored by Hannah Trenholm Equine Therapist
Next up – Double Header at Henley!
There's more rugby to look forward to on Saturday 7 November, and we want to see as many supporters as possible down at the club!
The Henley Hawks Women take on Okehampton at 1pm, followed by the Henley Hawks Men against Esher at 3pm.
Two big games, one club and one fantastic afternoon of rugby. Get down, get behind both teams and help create a great atmosphere. Let's get behind our Hawks – Henley As One!
