H-ton Hawks Badge Design (2)

After a lengthy absence, the blog will hopefully start to have regular updates. The first of which is my attempts at a badge for the H-ton Hawks.

Also, there is a new H-ton Hawks poll in the sidebar.

Entry 2

Entry 3

Raise Money with the Hawks

Hi All
The Hawks need your help.
Graeme (Sprout), Dave and Robert (Law) all all running in this year's Great North Run in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
Please show your support by sponsoring them on their epic run so that they can raise as much money as possible for charity (not John Garrity)

The easiest way to donate money is online at

http://www.justgiving.com/htonhawks

Otherwise, you can sponsor us in person by just handing us money.

Thanks for your support.

Hawks Results

Its been a while since the blog has been updated along with the results, so here are the scores from the previous matches, minus match reports. I can't guarantee the accuracy as I'm mostly working from memory.

Wednesday 6-a-side League
Alan's Allstars 2-4 H-ton Hawks
H-ton Hawks 2-4. Shotton FC
Hetton Casuals 2-0 H-ton Hawks
The Club 4-0 H-ton Hawks
H-ton Hawks 3-2 Npower 6s
Legends 4-2 H-ton Hawks
Alan's Allstars 2-4 H-ton Hawks
Seaham FC 2-2 H-ton Hawks
Nee Gud 0-2 H-ton Hawks
Shotton FC 1-1 H-ton Hawks


Friday Night 5-a-side League
Barmy Army 9-5 H-ton Hawks
Inta Ya Mam 7-5 H-ton Hawks
Fatfield 5-8 H-ton Hawks
Barmy Army 10-0 H-ton Hawks (forfeit)

Hawks 3-2 Nee Gud (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

An injury ravaged Hawks showed immense character and guts to come back from two goals behind to pick up maximum points against Nee-Gud.
The Hawks were forced to recall Simpson, who hadn't played since the Hawks first ever match in which were beaten 24-2 by the Coach and Horses, to the makeshift team for this week. Houghton, who had missed Friday's draw in the Washington League, returned despite being advised to rest his persistent groin strain. He was joined by fellow injured list member Aldridge. Aldridge selflessly agree to take up the challenge of goalkeeper despite sporting a broken toe.

The unorthodox Hawks team were left chasing the game during the first 14 minutes of play. As they adjusted to play with their new players and formation, Nee-Gud took advantage by scoring twice. Despite having a few chances, Nee-Gud were able to convert in front of goal. The Hawks on the other hand had the lion's share of the play but were unable to make it count in the final third.

The second half whistle seemed to change the whole game. Nee-Gud's tactics switched to ball greedy ethic. From the centre ball to commence the half, solo runs and shots were the only play they attempted. The Hawks too were a changed team. Digging deep they chased down every ball for the whole of the second period. Hassling at the front, racing both directions through midfield, tracking back and defending in numbers. All it took was one break bay SWA as he battled his way through the opposition and put the ball in the back of the net. This was the catalyst for the Hawks comeback. Every ball contended for, not allowing Nee-Gud to settle.

An in swinging ball which SWA nodded past the keeper was the straw that broke the camel's back as far as Nee-Gud were concerned. Having contested every decision of the game, Nee-Gud appealed for the goal to be disallowed for encroachment into the box. This was never going to be given. SWA was clearly outside of the area. This upset Nee-Gud further, allowing the Hawks to turn up the pressure. Every member of the Hawks did their bit and the team were justly rewarded when SWA completed his hat-trick to put them ahead. Great defending and teamplay ensured that the score stayed this way until the final whistle.

An excellent performance boosted by the extra point for scoring 3 goals or more ensure that Hawks are still contenders for the League two title. The team of Aldridge, Cummings, Simpson, Lawrence, Houghton and Watchman-Atkinson should be proud of the way they played tonight. The game was summed up by the Hawks motto, "Hawks Fly Together".

Next week's opponent and time TBC.

Hawks Injury Crisis Deepens

The Hawks injury problems were at a critical level today as Aldridge was added to the already lengthy list of crocked players.
Aldridge is reported to have broken his big toe is Friday's clash against Usworth. This means he joins Wilson (twisted knee), Houghton (groin) and Borthwick (San Fransico-itis) in the queue to see the Hawks physio. Return dates are yet to be determined. Wednesday's game against Nee-Gud appears to be in doubt unless the reserves can be called upon.

If you know anyone who can kick a ball then contact the Hawks. Your team needs you!

H-ton Hawks 6-6 Usworth

In a match with a yo-yo scoreline, the Hawks were denied the full 3 points in the dying minutes.
This week saw the Innserve Ringers re-introduced to a sparse Hawks team. Only Lawrence, Cummings (goalkeeper) and Aldridge would line up from the original cast.

The match saw the lead changing hands numerous times over the course of the 28 minutes. Hawks took an early lead with an Aldrige opener, but despite a Lawrence hat-trick, they would only muster a draw form this clash. With only weeks until they quit the league, the Hawks's race to overtake Inta Ya Mam and leave the base of the division gained a vital boost.

Next Friday's game is against Albany at 7.30pm 25th May on Court 3.

Seaham FC 4-2 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

The Hawk's unbeaten run in the Wednesday Hetton Soccer 6 league came to an end as they failed to adapt to playing conditions.
As the heavens opened to give the Hawks their first match in the rain, their inexperience of playing on a wet surface proved their downfall.

In a game of little chances for either team, Seaham Fc could count themselves lucky to be 2-nil up at half time. Their first found the net from a wildly swung boot on the half way point. This lofted ball somehow ended up in the top corner of the goal. Their second came from a Lawrence backpass that slipped through the wet hands of debutant goalkeeper Watchman-Atkinson.

The second half was the same story. Unable to control the long high balls, the Hawks attacks quickly broke down and were caught on the counter. Both of Seaham's goals were deflected past the keep by blocking defenders. A late surge which saw Borthwick find the net was too little too late.

Next week's game is at 7.30 against Nee-Gud.

Pro Evo 13-1 H-ton Hawks

Thirteen proved unlucky for the Hawks as they were soundly thumped by Pro Evo.
With other commitments and injuries added to the announcement that the Hawks are to quit the Friday Washington League, Mitchinson was drafted in again to fill a gap left by absentee players. This also meant that an unfit Houghton, who has been struggling with a groin injury, would have to play to make up the numbers.

No-one could be in any doubt who which team is challenging for the title and which one is propping up two divisions. In a game of total domination, the Hawks only consolation was their spirit, to turn out week after week as they struggle for players, and a late consolation goal by Mitchinson, to ruin Pro Evo's clean sheet.

Next week's game is against league newcomers Usworth.

Alan's Allstars 2-2 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

The Hawks failed to capitalise in the this top of the table clash as they threw away points by not concentrating.
Despite going ahead twice, the Hawks gifted the opposition points in the dying minutes when they switched off from the game. Two goals from Neil Houghton had put them into the lead, but as the game wore on, the Hawks sat back, allowing Alan's Allstars to equalise.

Despite the scoreline, the Hawks did play flourishes of good football even with injury and absence affecting the line-up.

Next week's game is against Seaham FC

Hawks to Quit Washington 5-a-Side League

After much deliberation, H-ton Hawks have made the decision to withdraw from the Friday Night Washington 5-a-Side League. Team administrator Lee Borthwick informed the league of the Hawks intentions prior to Friday's defeat to Aparell Master.

Spiralling costs, player's other commitments and ruined Friday social lives were high on the long list of reasons to resign, and had lead to the constant struggle to find a team for Friday's matches.

Hawks web-monkey and official blogger Graeme Houghton commented, "It’s a sad to be leaving the league that brought about the H-ton Hawks, but unfortunately we all have busy lives that get in the way. It’s been fun despite the defeats and has reintroduced us all to exercise. It has just reached the time to call it a day in the Washington League. It's not the end for the Hawks as we'll continue to play in the Hetton Soccer-6 on a Wednesday and seek out other challenges."

The Hawks have informed league that will continue in the Washington League until a replacement is found, however this arrangement will only have a finite time span. As stated above, all other Hawks games and practice sessions are unaffected.

Aparell Master 12-1 H-ton Hawks

A severely under strength Hawks were soundly beaten by Aparell Master, the team sitting second in the league.
The Hawks could not field their first choice line-up and managed to scrape together a injured, unfit and tired team.

Borthwick and Aldridge lined up along with Cummings, who was suffering from pulled muscles in the chest and tiredness from being at casualty until 3am, Houghton, still struggling with a groin strain, and Mitchinson, drafted in at the last moment. The makeshift team were there to avoid the Hawks having to forfeit.

If they had forfeit, the score line of 10-nil would have been slightly better than the final result, but the fact that the Hawks turned up to compete in this uneven contest reaffirms the Hawks positive attitude. The Hawks only goal came late into the game from Houghton, but this was the only break for them and never troubled Aparell Master's goal. The game was marred by the yellow card given to a member of Aparell Master, who took exception to Aldridge's kicks to his ankles in the corner of the pitch. The two were separated after a bit of pushing, shoving and posturing with inflated chests.

Next week's game is against Pro Evo on 11th May.

Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6 Fixtures

Fixtures for the H-ton Hawks in the Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6 can be found at http://sproutnet.googlepages.com/h-tonhawks or by clicking here.

H-ton hawks 2-1 Nee-Gud (Friendly - Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

In a second friendly of the night, the Hawks notched up another victory in the dying minutes.
Five of the Hawks stepped into replace a no-show team. The sixth member of their side was donated by the game's opponents and fellow tem from League 2, Nee-Gud.

Despite having just played 28 minutes of football, the Hawks seemed up for the game. Although legs were not as fresh as earlier, the Hawks were able to come back from a one goal deficit to win 2-1. The winning goal was scored by Aldridge with a wonderful chip over the diving keeper after he ran onto a through ball at the halfway line as part of a counter attack. Earlier the Hawks had been brought level by Borthwick.

Additional note: The Hawks must learn how to take a legal throw-in as too many balls were being given away due to foul throws. Masterclass details to follow in due course but pre-class reading can be found here.

H-ton Hawks 4-0 Npower 6s (Friendly - Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks notched up their second win is as many weeks against N-power 6s, although this time it was only a friendly.
Dominating the first half, the Hawks took control and put the game out of reach of the Npower 6s in this replacement fixture.

A convincing first half display yielded goals from Borthwick (2), Lawrence (1) and Houghton (1). Passing was confident and saw good off the ball movement. The second half was slower in tempo as the Hawks sat back on their lead and allowed Npower to chase the game with debut keeper Aldridge putting in a solid performance.

H-ton Hawks 3-0 Legends (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

The Hawks pick up another 4 points in the Hetton Soccer-6s, albeit by default due to a no show by the Legends.
The Hawks, sitting 3rd in the table before this game, were awarded a 3-nil win against their absent opponents.

The next game is against Alan's Allstars at 6.00pm 9/5/07.
This is the match the Hawks were supposed to be playing when Botty cocked up the fixture list.

Save Neighbours on the BBC

Click on the link below and help keep the BBC the home of Ramsay Steet.

Online petition - KEEP NEIGHBOURS ON THE BBC

Read All About It

The local press have finally jumped the Hawks bandwagon. The region's top reporters have caught the Hawks bug and are following in the footsteps of Mr Sprouts Blogspot by producing a weekly match reports, that can be found in the Sunderland Sports Echo. Read the in-depth analysis of the Hetton Soccer-6 Leagues every Saturday evening.

Lucombe 5-7 H-ton Hawks

The Hawks were impressive in this well deserved victory over Lucombe.
Once again the Hawks line-up was changed. Borthwick and Aldridge were out as they had gone to the Sunderland vs. Burnley match (Sunderland 3-2 Burnley) and Wilson was out running as training for a judo competition on Sunday. This meant Cummings returned to keep goal in his first match back from honeymoon and Jaff would make his Friday Washington League Hawks debut.

From kick off the Hawks dominated the play and took the lead early on with a SWA goal. There were more goals to follow, with the Hawks finding themselves 4-nil up. Lucombe started their come-back with one goal before half time and a handful in the second half. This would not be enough for them to upset the Hawks who had coolly built up a several goal cushion. The Hawks slowed the tempo down and played out the remainder of the match. As the final whistle blew, the Hawks congratulated themselves on a job well done.

Goals came from Jaff (3), SWA (3) and Lawrence.

The next game is against Aparell Master at 7.30pm Friday 4th May.

H-ton Hawks 5-0 Npower 6s (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

In stark contrast to the earlier friend game, the Hawks put in a convincing performance to beat Npower 6s.
By the time the correct match time came around, the Hawks had made changes to their line-up. Russell was out, off to watch the Manchester United Champion's League semi-final, and Aldridge and Neil Houghton were in. Watchman-Atkinson also made a well dressed appearance as the Hawks manager.

In a stylish, well battled performance, the Hawks ruled the pitch with a confident display in front of goal and a solid defence at the rear. This gave the Hawks the first points of the new league formation. Goals came from N. Houghton (2), Lawrence, Borthwick and G. Houghton.

Next week's game it TBC (this time we'll try to get the time and opposition right).

H-ton Hawks 0-4 Hetton Scaffolders (Friendly - Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

Contrary to what was published in the previous Hetton Soccer-6 match report, the Hawks were not playing Alan's Allstars at 6pm.
Team administrator Lee Borthwick had misread the fixtures, resulting in an embarrassed Hawks team turning up 2 hours early. With such an early supposed kick off, the Hawks had drafted in Jaff, now a Hawks regular, Ross Millard and Russell (Sorry, don't know your surname). This was to replace Aldridge, who works until 6pm, Garrity, on the wrong work shift, and SWA, who was just missing. Jaff, Millar and Russell were joined by Borthwick, Lawrence and Houghton.

Despite turning up early, the Hawks were given a friendly to compete in against division 1 side Hetton Scaffolders, who's opposition had failed to turn up for the second consecutive week. Unfortunately the Hawks weren't up to the challenge and put in a poor performance. With players struggling to find their natural positions, Hetton Scaffolders ran out 4-nil winners.

D.P. Trophies 7-4 H-ton Hawks

A makeshift Hawks team put in a brave performance but came out on the losing side again.
With Borthwick and Cummings missing on love duty, and Wilson running around the neighbourhood with a string of children in tow (all above board... it's a judo thing), the Hawks line-up consisted of Lawrence in goal, Aldridge, Garrity, Houghton and Watchman-Atkinson.

Despite a solid start, the Hawks found them in the familiar position of being behind
and chasing the game. The unfamiliar line-up was taking it's toll with Aldridge and Houghton playing rear guard and SWA and Garrity playing forward. This resulted in a 5-nil score line at halftime.

The second half was a different story. The Hawks upped the tempo and started to get rewards. Two penalties were awarded for their persistence; one for the keeper collecting the ball outside of his box and one for a backpass without touching a minimum of two outfield players. Garrity stepped up and slotted both home. He completed his hat trick with a well battled effort. The Hawks other goal came from a long ranged speculative shot from Houghton. Alas the comeback was not to be, and D.P. Trophies added another two to their tally. The game may have finished 7-5 but the Hawks showed great character and can take a lot from the game.

Next week's game is against Lucombe at 7.30pm on Court 2.

The Club 4-3 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

For the second week in a row, the Hawks suffered defeat at the hands of The Club
The Hawks team line-up was the same as last week's (Aldridge, Borthwick, Garrity, Houghton, Craig(Jaff), Lawrence) plus the addition of Steve Mapstone.

The match was a closer fought affair than the previous week's game. The Hawks were the first to strike. Borthwick stole the ball on the half way and scored from his solo run through the middle. Then in a mirror of the previous week, The Club scored 4 without response. The second half saw the Hawks bounce back with Borthwick picking up his second and Garrity opening his Hawks scoring account. The Hawks can feel thy missed out on picking up points on the re-launch of the league. They were unlucky not to have scored more and the defence was relatively solid (for the second half at least). The referee also had a poor game. He gave The Club both the centre kick offs, dismissed a blatant infraction into the box by The Club. There was also some other questionable decisions against and for both teams.

The next game is at the earlier time of 6pm, 25th April against Alan's Allstars

Back by unpopular demand,
Houghton injury update:
Jarred Big toe (again), jellyfish legs, pulled groin and twisted testicle.
Expected lay-up: Not long as he has to get training for the Great North Run

Barmy Army 8-6 H-ton Hawks

In a high tempo and well fought game, the Hawks can feel aggrieved to have not picked up any points against Barmy Army
This week saw the Hawks field five original members in the bottom of the table clash against Barmy Army.

During a goalless first 5 minutes the Hawks looked the most likely to score with a handful of chances. The defence also looked solid, closing down Barmy Army well. Unfortunately this didn't last. A long range effort found the corner of the Hawks net, out of the reach of keeper Borthwick. This would be the theme of virtually every goal by Barmy Army.

The Hawks did not sit back and allow Barmy Army to continue to score long range goal after goal. The Hawks pulled it back level on many occasions. A pattern of going two goals behind, only to bring it level minutes later was continue up until the final whistle. Unfortunately for the Hawks this was before they had chance to equalise.

The game saw Lawrence score 5 goals, with Houghton picking up the 6th.

The next game is against D.P. Trophies on 20th April.

Shotgun Steven

The H-ton Hawks Team Photo

The H-ton Hawks first team


Top Row (left to right): Lee Borthwick, Steven Wilson, Simon Watchman-Atkinson, Steven Aldridge.
Bottom Row (left to right): Graeme Houghton, Dave Cummings, Robert Lawrence

Dave & Lauren's Wedding

Photos from the nuptials are now online. They can be found by clicking on the happy couple below.

H-ton Hawks 1-5 The Club (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

With more team changes forced upon them, the Hawks failed to gel.
Cummings, Mitchinson and Watchman-Atkinson were out, Jaff and Garrity were in.

The Hawks started out on the back foot and the match continue that way until the end. Without a regular goalkeeper for Wednesdays the Hawks had that extra issue to deal with. Against the run of play, the Hawks actually took the lead from a Lawrence penalty kick. This was conceded when one of The Club's players entered their own box. The goal came at the second attempt as the penalty had to be retook after the referee rule there had been encroachment.

This lead would be short-lived. The Club stepped it up a gear and they soon had the ball in the back of the net several times. The Hawks did to help themselves as they not make the most of the chances they had.

The Hetton Soccer-6s has an overhaul next week. The teams have been divided into two leagues. All previous results are cancelled. The leagues start afresh.

The next game is 18th April - 7.30pm against The Club

Tenerife March 2007

The photos from another week away in the sunny isle of Tenerife

They can be found by clicking here or by clicking on the picture below.



You can compair them to mine and Botty's photo's from last year. Nothing much has changed except we look slightly older.

Fatfield FC 7-4 H-ton Hawks

The Hawks found themselves on the end of a 7-4 defeat by a new team taking the place of Fatfield FC.
With the alcoholic Hawks in transit back from their week of debauchery and tomfoolery, the Innserve ringers stepped in for the challenge. Unfortunately the challenge was too much.

The next game will be in two weeks, after the Easter break. The game is at 7.30pm, 19th April on Court 1 against Barmy Army.

Alan's Allstars 3-2 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

With absent Hawks members slowly poisoning themselves with cheap continental vodka, two new recruits stepped into the breach.
Despite the addition of David "Jaff" Craig and Ross Millard, and the continuation of Mitchinson's inclusion, the Hawks slipped up against their old adversaries from the Houghton Feast 5-a-side Tournament.

Hawks goals came from Lawrence and Millard.

The next game in the Hetton 6-a-side league will have to be forfeit due to the full team being in Scotland for Dave and Lauren's wedding.

H-ton Hawks 5-3 Inta Ya Mam

The Hawks knock up their second victory of the season in the Washington 5-a-side league.
Despite missing four of the regular Hawks (Aldridge, Borthwick, Houghton and Wilson were off on their week long mission to destroy their livers and kidneys in Tenerife), the stand in team did a sterling job and notched up a win. This was partial helped along by the in-fighting and arguments taking place in the Inta Ya Mam team as the Hawks took the lead. That said, nothing must be taken away from the Hawks performance.

Next game is 7.30 30th April against Fatfield FC.

H-ton Hawks 4-0 Npower 6s (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

The Hawks picked their first victory in the Hetton Soccer-6 League in style against Npower 6s.
The Hawks underwent a change on the team sheet and on the pitch as they convincingly took maximum points. Borthwick took an outfield role and there was new recruit to the Hawks in the form of Steven Mitchinson. With Borthwick's position change, Lawrence took up the role of goalkeeper in the first half, with Mitchinson taking over after the break. The Hawks also had the bonus of having 7 players available for selection, so the rolling substitute option was used - each non-goalkeeping player would switch after 5 minutes.

The Hawks made a solid start and dominated with attacking play, however it took a while before Aldridge slotted home the opener with a impressive solo goal from the left hand side. The Hawks maintained the lion's share of possession for remainder of the half but the score would stay at 1-nil going into the break.

The second half started out more tentatively with the Hawks seem to sit slightly back on their lead, allowing the Npower 6s to push towards the goal more. The Hawks soaked this up and Borthwick managed to score on the counter-attack. This seemed to be the blow which made the Npower 6s admit defeat. Borthwick slotted home his second in to an open goal as he stood unmarked on the edge of the box from a Lawrence run down the right. There were no opposition players with 10m as the ball hit the back of the net. The Npower 6s did make a late rally but didn't trouble Mitchinson's goal. Borthwick killed the game off as he completed his hat trick. The Hawks may feel aggrieved that they did not score more as they had chances which came close. No more so that the last kick of the game in which Lawrence's effort curled wide from the left side of the box.

Next week's match will see the Hawks without Aldridge, Borthwick and Houghton who are off sunning themselves on far-away shores.

Next match details is against Alan's Allstars.

It has been proposed that the pitch sizes will be increasing and therefore later kick-offs would be introduced to cope with the loss of 1 game per half hour being played. Further details to follow when available.

Houghton injury update:
Nothing to report apart from a slight tan scuffing

Albany 9-1 H-ton Hawks

The Hawks were beaten by a flattering score line in this top versus bottom clash.
The 9-1 score line flattered Albany, but they did run out deserved winners.

The Hawks held their own in the opening period, playing some good football and may have felt their efforts deserved some rewards. The half started with a controversial hard tackle from an Albany play with saw Cummings end up crashing into one of the artificial walls that enclose the court. The Albany player was given a well justified yellow card. Had this been later in the game, he could have received a red.

Despite the Hawks good play, Albany showed why they are top of the league by scoring freely. A change at halftime (Houghton for SWA) could not stop the goals from being conceded. The Hawks goal came in the second half in a similar manor to the only goal against Aparell Master, Houghton down the right flank, his shot rebounds to the centre of the box, for Lawrence to convert.

The next Washington 5-a-side League game is 7.00pm Friday 23rd March against Inter Ya Mam, on Court 2. The Hawks will be without Aldridge, Borthwick, Houghton and Wilson as they will be sunning it up in Tenerife.

H-ton Hawks 1-2 Lyons Lads (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

The Hawks made a solid debut in this new start-up league despite starting off with a defeat. The Hawks have been placed in League B
Adjusting to the new conditions (outdoor), surface (Astroturf with sand and coned of pitch sections), rules (no head height rule) and 6 players per side, took the Hawks a short while. They played some good football but Lyons Lads, with their rolling subs took a two goal lead. The Hawks fought back and had the better of it in the final third of the game, creating many chances and coming close on numerous occasions. Houghton scored the Hawks only goal of the game. Aldridge did put the ball in the back of the net in the closing minutes but the referee had failed to play the advantage for an infringement and the Hawks had to be content with a free kick on in the final third.

The Hawks were invited to play a friendly immediately after their match, to fill in for missing opposition. With SWA having commitments, Aldridge, Cummings, Houghton and Lawrence were joined by a donor member from the other team. Borthwick fancied a stint in outfield so Lawrence and Cummings each took a half in goal. The game ended in a 4-3 defeat but the Hawks were not at full steam due to it being a friendly, having played 30 minutes previously, and not having their full, first choice team.. They can take good experience and positives from this and hopefully use them in their forthcoming games.

Next Hetton Soccer-6 is against Npower 6s at 7.00pm Wednesday 21/3/07

Houghton Injury Watch:
This week: Bruised Big Toe & pulled groin.
Expected lay-up: less than 1 week

Hetton 6-a-side League

The Hawks will make their debut in the newly formed 6-a-side League at Hetton School at 6.30pm on Wednesday 14th March.

Players to be there at 6.15 for a briefing on the rules.

Famous Faces

http://www.myheritage.com

Benicàssim Blog Entry

I've never got around to finishing it so I thought I migh as well publish it in it's incomplete state. This might inspire me to try and finish it.

You can view it HERE.

Enjoy

Barcelona Slideshow

H-ton Hawks 8-8 Three Counties

Despite playing against only 4 men, the Hawks had to settle for a draw.

A last minute equaliser and abysmal refereeing by the same geriatric blind referee that has blighted the Hawks in recent weeks, denied the Hawks the full three points. The Hawks also picked up their first yellow card since they joined the league. Rodgerson was the guilty party but decided to give Houghton's name.

The next game is against Albany at 6.30pm Friday 16th March.

Pro Evo 7-2 H-ton Hawks

The Hawks continued to suffer from a lack of team line-up consistency with an other defeat.

An admin error and injury meant that the Hawks were once again struggling for a team. These factors meant that the makeshift Hawks team had an uphill struggle from the start. This lead to the inevitable defeat.

Next game is against Three Counties at 6.30pm, Friday 9th March on Court 2.

Aparell Master 13-1 H-ton Hawks

The Hawks put in a below par performance and were deservedly thumped 13-1

The Hawks went into the match fielding a below strength team due to a shortage of players. This resulted in Houghton, returning from a rib injury, was forced to play the full game.

The Hawks' only goal came from Lawrence on the edge of the box after a Houghton shot rebounded on the far right wall. However, this was the only positive from the game.

Houghton Injury Watch:
This is a new feature in which we list the new injury that Houghton picks up each week he plays.
This week: The Big Toe.
Expected lay-up: 2-3 weeks

Next Game is against Pro Evo on 2th March.

Barcelona Montage

Lucombe 9-8 H-ton Hawks

In a game of two vastly differing halves, the Hawks lost by one goal from the last kick of the game.
The Hawks boasting a squad of 5 players and 3 subs were confident after the previous week’s victory and first points. With SWA missing on love patrol with his lovely girlfriend and Aldridge still on the injury list, emergency players were drafted in to replace the absentees and to aide Houghton, returning to play after a string of injuries (toe & ribs), who would only feature as a late substitute.

The opening team consisted of Bortwick (goalkeeper), Cummings, S. Wilson, Lawrence and Foster. This team was slow to gel and Lucombe had the best of the play for the entire first half. Attacking moves were ineffective and exposed the defence too many times. Goals from Lawrence and Wilson didn't prevent the score from being 6-2 to Lucombe at half time.

The second half saw two substitutions being made by the Hawks - Cummings and Foster made way for Rodgerson and N. Wilson (no relation to S. Wilson). This would change the game. Some excellent midfield passing play saw a plethora of goals being scored by the two substitutes and Lawrence, although the Hawks continued to concede. With minutes remaining Lawrence left the pitch allowing Houghton to play his first game since 19th January. This would not be a victorious return. The Hawks conceded a free kick near the edge of the box and were caught napping from the resulting play allowing Lucombe to score from the last kick of the match. The Hawks did not realise they had been so close to picking up at least a point. The game finished 9-8.

Comment has to be passed on the extremely poor refereeing again by the same referee mentioned in previous match report. The Hawk's actions on this are yet to be decided but a complaint in some form will be lodged.

The next game is against Aparell Master 7.30pm, 23rd January on Court 2.

H-ton Hawks 7-6 D.P. Trophies

At long last H-ton Hawks recorded their first win.
Unfortunately this was only a pseudo win as all of the regular members were absent and had been replaced by work colleagues.

Well a win is still a win. The regular Hawks team is back this week and hope to build on this - complete with their new strip.

Next game is Lucombe on Friday 16th Feb, 7.30pm on Court 2.

Help Raise Money for Kyu-Shin-Do-Ryu Judo Club

The Hawks very own Ninja Wilson requires your help.
By using the link below to buy stuff from the lots of well known and popular online retailers, you can help raise money for his judo club (Kyu-Shin-Do-Ryu Judo Club).
Such stores are HMV, Game, Play.com, Amazon, Marks & Spencers + many more are there
The purchases will cost you no extra than normal but the club receives a percentage of each your spend.

http://buy.at/ksdrjudoclub

So remember to visit the site when you shop online.

Also, if you want to make me money, please click on the adverts on Mr Sprout's Blogspot & the Val Thorens site. Get get a couple of pence for every click from the nice people at Google.

Barmy Army 7-4 H-ton Hawks

In a game they should have won, 90 seconds of madness cost them the game
Despite scoring first, having the majority of the play and being level at 4-4 with only 5 minutes to play, the Hawks somehow lost.

The Hawks took the lead early on from a quick free kick from Borthwick after he was fouled on the right of the Barmy Army area. This lead was held for quite a while and the Hawks still threatened. This attacking style cos them and after some pressure, found themselves 3-1 down. A Borthwick goal brought it back to 3-2, but a controversial goal was given against them. The referee, who had until now a questionable performance, decided the ball had crossed the line. His decision was far from clear. The point at which the Hawks knew the goal had been given was as they started to play the ball out from the back, the ref stopped play. This spurred the Hawks into action. Borthwick completed his hat trick and Wilson scored with help from a slight deflection. As the Hawks applied further pressure, with 5 minutes left the Hawks look like they could take all the points. Alas this wasn't to be. The foot was taken of the gas as fatigue set in and concentration slipped. This allowed the Barmy Army to fight back. And their fightback overwhelmed the Hawks. 3 goals within 90 seconds doomed the Hawks to another defeat. Despite a few last minute attacks by the Hawks, the score would end 7-4.

The next game for the Hawks is scheduled to be against D.P. Trophies 7.30pm Friday 9th Feb on court 1, however the game is almost certain to be forfeit due to the majority of the team away in Barcelona and the reserves short on the ground.

Snowboarding - Val Thorens 2007

Just in case you weren't aware that I'd been snowboarding in Val Thorens, well I have.  It was excellent fun, if not very cold and destructive to the body.  Since there was 18 of us that went (+2 extra in our chalet) we've decided to collaborate all of our photos and videos into one place.

www.valthorens2007.blogspot.com

H-ton Hawks 5-11 Fatfield FC

With the Hawks missing Houghton, Wilson, Aldridge and Borthwick due to snowboarding, re-enforcements were called in.
This, however, was not enough to secure any points. Even with new recruits P Wilson and Rogerson having reasonable debuts, the Hawks streak without pointscontinues.

Next game is against Barmy Army

Inta Ya Mam 7-4 H-ton Hawks

In a match they should have won the hawks put in a woeful performance and were duly beaten.
Despite going 1-nil ahead the Hawks proceeded in one of their worst displays to date and were soundly defeated 4-7. Missing Wilson and Aldridge due to Snowboarding and G Houghton due to injury, the team consisted of Borthwick (goalkeeper), Cummings, Watchman-Atkinson, Lawrence, N Houghton. There was no urgency or energy in the Hawks' play and too many silly mistakes gifted the game to a poor opposition.

Hawks goals came from N Houghton (2), Watchman-Atkinson (1 - pen) & Lawrence (1 - free kick).

The next game is against Fatfield FC at 7.30pm, 26th January, Court 2

H-ton Hawks 3-4 Albany

In their closest league game to date, the Hawks were unlucky to lose by a one goal margin.
Playing against the league's top team, Albany, H-ton Hawks put in a brave performance which saw them be denied of their first points of the season by a late goal.

Despite the obvious gap in ability between the two teams, which can clearly be seen by the league table, the Hawks soaked up the early pressure from Albany with a tight defensive display. Despite this one way play, it was the Hawks who took the lead with a well struck long range effort. This seemed to be a bit of a catalyst to even out the play. The one goal advantage lasted for a fair period of time, but inevitably this was cancelled out. It wasn't long before Albany followed up with a second. The game remained 2-1 until half-time.

The second half saw a repeat of the first half. Albany applying the majority of the pressure with the Hawks remaining firm at the back but still ready to push forward in search of goals. With Albany proving difficult to break down by individual play, the Hawks opted for playing more through balls from midfield through to the front. It was this play that brought the equaliser. Houghton's ball from wide right to Lawrence allowed him to slot home. Albany came out and took back the lead but the Hawks still had fight left. In an almost carbon copy of the previous goal, Houghton threaded the ball to a forward running Lawrence who duly converted the chance with a excellent strike.

With the score all square with minutes left, the Hawks looked like they were ready to lose their point scoring virginity. Alas this was not to be. With three minutes left, the solid Hawks defence slipped up allowing Albany to score what ultimately turned out to be the winner.

The Albany coach heaped praise on the Hawk's performance, pointing out the vast improvement from the last time the two teams played each other. The Hawks can once again take positives from the performance in preparation for the bottom of the table clash with Inta Ya Mam formerly Remmer & the Arg (previous games (1), (2)). The Hawks will be without Aldridge and Wilson who are resting to avoid injury prior to their snowboarding trip, and Houghton who picked an foot injury during the Albany game and doesn't wish to aggravate it prior to the same trip.

Inta Ya Mam vs. H-ton Hawks, 6.00pm, Friday 19th January, Court 2

H-ton Hawks 4-9 Three Counties

2007 started as 2006 ended... with another Hawks defeat.
The Hawks, however, can take positives from the game as they put in a good performance that did not deserve the score line.

The Hawks started the game brightly taking a 2-nil lead. Both goals from Lawrence - one from open play and one from a penalty conceded when the Three Counties keeper left the box. The Hawks kept up the pressure, but the opposition crept back into the game and eventually taking the lead through a cruel deflected goal off Lawrence. Wilson brought the game back to level pegging with a left-footed effort that crept under the keeper.

With thinks pretty even going into the second half, the Hawks were confident that they could take their first points of the season from the game. This was not meant to be. Despite Aldridge scoring his debut goal, Three Counties put the game beyond the Hawks reach. Great goal keeping from Cummings kept the score down, and the Hawks were unlucky not to have added to their goal tally as all members of the outfield team had chances which weren't converted.

The Hawks must build on this performance, increase their fitness (which was a huge factor in the second half) and try to lose some of the holiday weight that some of the members have gained over the festive period.

The next game is against league leaders Albany at 7.30pm 12th January on Court 3.