Men’s 7s in close game with Wootton

Hawks 7 continued their difficult season with a close fixture against fellow promotees Wootton Wanderes with a spirited performance.

Last season saw both Hawks and Wootton comfortably clear of oppositions in Cherwell 2; with a comfortable gap between the two sides. This season has, however, seen both sides struggle to settle in, with a number of changes and significantly stronger opponents.

However, Whilst Wootton have been able to gain a run of form, Hawks have been left languishing.

For Hawks 7s, it has been very much a season of rebuilding and development, and this fixture was further demonstration of the continual development and improvements, combined with a very solid performance the week previous against Abingdon, and the fact the team walked off disappointed with a close loss highlights the closeness and belief the team deserve to be in contention for staying where they are.

The game started incredibly closely, with the first half a very evenly contested affair. A well converted short corner on the stroke of half time saw Wootton edge in front, and the psychological edge of going into half time in front took its toll.

Hawks then conceded shortly after half time with another short, before a smooth passage of play and diving top D strike from Ben J saw a glimpse of spirit and opportunity - the win was still on!

However, as the game progressed and both sides tired, it was the size 9's of the defence that played the greatest part - with Wootton capitalising on targeting the weak spots in the 7s defence to gain a multitude of short corners - of which enough were able to cross the line to push the result out of doubt.

The final result was 4-1 to Wootton, which sees them comfortably above relegation and confines Hawks to the bottom of the table and confirmed relegation (bar a league reshuffle), for them to bounce back next season stronger. MotM was a tie between Ben J for determination and impact across the attacking line, and James B, across the defence.

Next week sees Hawks take on Tring 1, in what promises to be a frenetic game, away at 12.15.

Thanks to Deborah for the photos, and to Andy K and Jeoff P for umpiring.