Wednesday evening saw the Developments XVs third game away to Whitecraigs resulting in a 17-5 victory. The relatively good crown were entertained by both teams. Hawks had a squad of 22 players used giving everyone good game time. Taking into account the relatively short coaching period, the team came together very well. Particularly in defense Hawks were well organised and committed.


All three ties resulted from attacks initiated from the halfway line. The lead was taken when the always dangerous Shaun Murray broke through the Whitecraigs defense to offload to speedy winger Rory Love to score (0-5). This lead was held until half time when Whitecraigs pressure early in the second half resulted in an equalising try as a result of their forward drives (5-5). This immediately resulted in the Hawks uping a gear and scoring within minutes of the re-start. A strike against the head by Matteo ?? ended in a text book number eight pick up and blindside attack and a try by Ben Wilkinson, who also duly converted (5-12).


The last try of the night by scrum half Craig Gossman, who generally had a good game all evening, resulted from him catching his own up and under from Hawks ten yard line and outstripping the cover defence.


Final word on the game has to go to the forwards who defended the well coached pick and drive attacks of the bulky Whitecraigs forwards.


Thanks to the Whitecraigs players coaches and staff for their hospitality, first class as always.


HG

This article was posted on 14-Feb-2008, 17:33 by Hugh Barrow.