Hawks hold off late Dream Team surge to secure victory

HENLEY HAWKS 2nds secured a well-earned 46-39 victory against DREAM TEAM in their Reading and District League Division 3 encounter.

The Hawks started strongly, setting the tone early with attacking play to edge the first quarter 18-15. Dream Team responded well, but Henley maintained their composure through the second quarter, heading into half-time with a narrow 26-23 lead.

The third quarter proved decisive as Hawks raised the intensity in both defence and attack, creating turnovers and converting key chances to extend their advantage to 38-31.

Despite a spirited final-quarter push from Dream Team, Henley remained disciplined and controlled the closing stages to see out the game in which Jodie Hill was player-of-the-match. In Division 1, HENLEY HAWKS 1sts went down to a 61-42 defeat against B’s.

B’s made a strong start, using their shooting accuracy to take a 15-11 lead at the end of the first quarter. Hawks battled hard to stay in contention, but B’s continued to apply pressure through the second quarter, extending their advantage to 31-22 by half-time.

The third quarter saw Hawks dig deep, particularly in defence, where they worked tirelessly to manage a tall and dominant shooter. Despite their efforts, B’s capitalised on their opportunities to push the score out to 45-31 heading into the final break.

Hawks continued to compete to the final whistle but B’s experience and consistency ultimately told as they ran out 19-goal winners. Charlotte Hopper was voted Henley’s player-of-the-match.

In the Berkshire Premier League Division 2, HENLEY HAWKS 1sts went down to a 49-41 defeat against WINDSOR.

The opening quarter was tightly contested, with both sides trading goals, but it was Windsor who edged ahead 12-9 at the first break. Hawks continued to work hard through the second quarter, however Windsor’s accuracy in attack saw them open up a 26-17 lead by half-time.

Hawks responded well after the interval, showing greater urgency and cohesion. The third quarter was far more even, with Hawks matching Windsor goal for goal, narrowing the gap slightly to 35-31 heading into the final period.

Despite a determined final-quarter effort, Windsor managed the closing stages effectively, keeping Hawks at arm’s length to secure a 49-41 win.