Henley Hawks 7-31 Old Albanian

By Lisa Tavinor

Henley Hawks kicked off their season with a tough test against a well-organised Old Albanians side, in what turned out to be a classic game of two halves.

Old Albanians came out of the blocks firing, putting Henley immediately under pressure. Within the opening ten minutes, the visitors had crossed the try line twice, capitalising on Henley’s slow start to take an early 0-12 lead.

Despite showing flashes of promise in attack, Henley were unable to convert opportunities into points, with handling errors and turnovers handing possession back to OAs. The visitors continued to apply pressure and were clinical in taking their chances, scoring again before the half was out. Henley did well to halt a further attack with some excellent defensive work just short of the line, but OAs remained relentless and took a commanding 0-31 lead into the break.

The halftime team talk from the coaching team proved pivotal. A reinvigorated Henley side returned to the field with renewed energy and intent. Their attacking play found rhythm and pace, with better support at the breakdown and improved ball retention. This momentum was rewarded when Phillips powered over the line after a well-worked phase of play, with Buluvuata adding the extras to bring the score to 7-31.

Defensively, Henley were outstanding in the second half, showing grit and determination to keep Old Albanians scoreless. The improved discipline, structure, and communication across the park made a significant difference and showed the team’s potential when firing on all cylinders.

While the final score read 7-31 in favour of Old Albanians, the second-half performance was a clear statement of intent from Henley. There’s plenty to build on, and this group will take the positives forward as they continue to gel and grow throughout the season.

Final Score: Henley Hawks 7 – 31 Old Albanians

Player’s Player: Becky Bristow, instrumental in keeping Oas from scoring in the second half, numerous tackles all over the pitch, and a constant attacking threat.

Henley now looks ahead to their next fixture away against Exeter Athletic Dakota on Sunday, 21st September, with confidence, knowing the best is yet to come.