THE Tea Gardens Hotel Hawks were defeated by the Wangi Warriors 26 points to 22. The trip to Wangi Oval last Saturday was highlighted by heavy showers, and blustery conditions and the field was mud and water. The Hawks did not handle the conditions well. Mistakes with the greasy ball had the visitors under pressure for long periods of time without possession. A soft try under the post saw the Hawks lead reduced from 10 points to 8 as the half time hooter sounded.
In the second half, the Warriors put on three converted tries within 15 minutes to take a lead of 26 points to 10. With improved ball security the Hawks were able to score two ties in the last 12 minutes. With both tries converted, a desperate Wangi side held the visitors out in the dying stages. For the Hawks none put in more effort than Matt Browne. Simon Spooner was dangerous from fullback, and Josh Simms recovered from heavy knocks to play a great game in attack and defence. Jason Purdon had a busy game at hooker, although the heavy conditions limited his chances in attack. Tyson Jolly was sound at five eight, and Josh Fidden had a strong game in defence. Simon Spooner scored three tries and Josh Simms one. Matt Browne kicked three goals from four attempts.
Awards: Best forward Matt Browne. Two points went to Jason Purdon and one point to Trent Murphy. Best back was Simon Spooner. Josh Simms received two points and Josh Fidden one point. The Referees Best and Fairest went to Clayton Bloomfield. The Players Player award was won by Matt Browne ahead of Josh Fidden and Simon Spooner. The ‘Waco Kwikform’ Supporters Award was won by Matt Browne. Simon Spooner received two points and Jason Purdon one. Next week the Hawks will have the long weekend off. They are at home to Stroud the following weekend. The game will kick off at 2.30pm.
The Hawks 100 Club will hold their champagne breakfast on the Monday June 8, at the Tea Gardens Hotel. Members will enjoy a meal and drinks from 9am. A royal partner’s dress theme is the dress code. Club memberships are still available. This week’s jackpot is up to $160. Contact 0427 602197 for Tea Gardens Hawks Football Club information.