Under 16 girls in close fought draw with Marlow

Hawks u16s had a tough league encounter at home against Marlow on Sunday.  Although Marlow were strong, Hawks started brightly and some impressive forward play from Jess Oakhill, Sophie Bennett and Kasey Butler created numerous opportunities and saw them go three nil up within the first 20 minutes with two goals from Bennett and one from Oakhill.  However, Marlow also looked threatening on the attack and despite some great defending from Rosie Arbuthnot, Sally Clark, Katie Cannon and Laura Scragg, they were able to level the scores before half time. 

The second half saw Hawks with greater possession and more chances; Georgia Perkins, Emily  Wyatt and Jenny Dingwall all influential in creating several goal scoring opportunites, one of which Emily Black converted from close range to take Hawks ahead for the second time in the game.  Marlow continued to threaten and Sophie McIvor in goal had to save well on a number of occasions.  In the last ten minutes Marlow scored two in close succession  and looked set to win until a final penalty corner strike from Jess Oakhill in the last minute gave their keeper no chance, particularly as Emily Black got quickly to the line to touch the ball over and make sure of the goal.  A great game for the spectators and huge effort and commitment from all the players.  Well done.  Many thanks to Katie Merrick and Andy Warne for umpiring.