Beverley A 13  Hull Ionians Hawks  28  -  Yorkshire Premier League

The Hawks fielded a very lively looking back line and a mobile back row/second row. Pace and enthusiasm was added to the back row with the debut of ex junior player Tim Wilson, who took the man of the match award. The problem for the Hawks remained the front row in particular props, as ten props were either unavailable or injured. The team was indebted to Manager Mally Knowles (yet again) and flanker Phil Stockton for stepping up and performing very well, even allowing hooker Ally Forth to take a strike against the head.
Beverley had the edge in enthusiasm in the first quarter and eventually got over the line from close range after sustained pressure. The Hawks were failing to play to their strengths which was obviously in the backs, however a loose Beverley clearance failed to find touch giving them a chance to run it back. An initial break by Gary Stephenson was carried on by Rob Whittam and Ryan Girking to put John Potts in for a try at the corner, which he magnificently converted from the touch line.
The second half began as the first with Beverley being more committed and they were rewarded with first a penalty and then another close range try to take a 13-7 lead. The prospect of losing eventually roused the Hawks and they went straight on the attack. Hard running and a good second effort by Martin Carew enabled him to reach out and score a converted try near the posts. Replacement Shaun Hannah entered the fray, although carrying a neck injury. Almost immediately he showed his class as he stepped back inside one defender and shot between two others to finish off a good backs move. A further try was then gifted to the immensely promising Rob Whittam by the Beverley defence. John Potts again converted and now has only missed two kicks at goal all season.
Thanks go to the Beverley referee who stepped in at the last minute and officiated very well leading to a good clean game. The Hawks can now take a break from the league after two successive victories as they travel to old rivals Scunthorpe on Saturday.