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.