The Southern River Hawks Provisional 2 team saw themselves matched up with 5th places Riverside Lions over the weekend. The weather conditions were pleasant for the Saturday afternoon game and the Hawks were in no doubt they weren’t going to give away much needed point to the Lions.
The team line up was close to its true form with the return of Leighton Keane and Gavin Mclarren. While Steve Martino was out, bringing the side to twelve players. Coach Barry Vanderputt was almost ready to shine off his stick after the earlier time slot caused some players to turn up moments before hit off.
The pre-game rituals began with Captain Lee Hansord losing the toss. However justice was returned when the Lions elected to start with the ball allowing the Hawks to hit towards the high sun. Even with the Lions starting with the ball they were quick to hand over possession and the Hawks showed while they are in the top four.
The start of the half saw the ball being passed around in the Lions half allowing the Hawks to show their skill in attack. Unfortunately all attempts to score became unanswered until the Hawks were awarded a dangerous short corner. Dangerous it was when Guy Hoskin pushed the ball out to Leighton Keane for a trap, allowing Lee Hansord to power the ball into the backboard. Thud, the Hawks were in the lead.
One goal up and the Hawks tried with all their might to increase their lead. In the Lion’s credit they did well to hold back the well planned attacks, at least until the half time whistle blew. The feeling around the half time huddle was of uneasiness, it was still anyone’s game.
The second half started differently then the first with the Lions taking the early possession and constantly testing the Hawks’ backline. In true form the Hawks were too strong ensuring keeper Tommy Vince was rarely needed. Half way through the second half the Lions ran out of steam as the Hawks took control of the game again.
With Guy Hoskin running down the line skilfully passing the Lions defence the Hawks had their next goal after a great cross through to Daniel Keane who easily converted. The Hawks were now two goals up, a comfortable lead. The Lions did well to hold of constant attacks from the Hawks finishing the game off 2-0 to the Hawks.
With the Hawks 7th win they have guaranteed a third place finish and entry to the finals. Next week the Hawks have another late Saturday game at Melville against fourth placed Old Guildford.
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