Up against by far the strongest opposition this year, the young Hawks took up the challenge and with relentless defence and good attacking play, proved too good for the bears.

Andrew Jones scored first for the Hawks and then Daniel Drew scored a converted try followed by a Braidwood try. Possibly the best try of the match came 2 minutes before half time when Jason Pollard switched the ball to the blind side to send Chris Beal away up the side line. Backing up on the inside, Nathan Schofield received a great pass from Chris to score under the post. The Hawks led 16-4 at the break.

The second half saw the Hawks continue with their quick moving and hard hitting play which had the bears growling in anguish as Luke Brown scored another try. With 14 minutes to go, Mick Alcorn sealed the match with a converted try. Braidwood scored a consolation try resulting in a final score 26-8.

In a team where all players played well, Tyson Astil and Ben Jamieson shared the player’s player, Jarrad Sharman received the coach’s award and Lewis Grange was voted man of the match. Tyson Astil sustained a new injury so let’s hope it is not too serious.

The draw has finally been finalised but there are still some changes being negotiated.

The Club is seeking two home games against Goulburn who forfeited a game against us last year.

The rules were changed a couple of years ago to provide that the Club forfeited against receives two consecutive home games.

There are also changes to game fixtures in mid May. Details will be advised in next week’s Express.

This week the Harden Hawks travel to Goulburn on Sunday to play the Gordon Highlanders at North Park.

The match starts at 2.30pm. The Highlanders have not started the season well and the boys should be too strong but there are never any certainties in football. Just ask Melbourne Storm!

Until next week, go the Hawks.

CH