Pennine League Division 5 - Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks Open Age
The Hawks will be looking to bounce back from 3 below par and
disappointing seasons with promotion the number 1 priority. Relegation
last year was a bitter pill to swallow - after a poor start to the
season, they ended as one of the form teams with 5 wins out of the last
6 games. However, due to teams dropping out and the league restructure,
the Hawks find themselves in division 5 for this year.
After struggling for players last year, recruitment started early for
this season and there are already 19 players signed up. Only 3 players
from last year are unavailable or playing elsewhere this year. A lack of
larger units in the pack cost the Hillsborough outfit points last year,
but the recruitment drive has added a number of front rowers into the
squad which should help lay the platform for the young backs to use
their pace and skill.
This year, they will be looking to become more ruthless after being seen
as a “soft touch” at times and teams seeing a young side, and trying to
bully them out of the game rather than playing rugby. A season in the
RLC during the summer will have given some players a bit more
experience, which will help cut out the rash mistakes of last year.
The target is promotion. In reality, a top 4 finish is a more likely
outcome, depending on players fitness and injuries.
Hawks players to watch:
Simon Lomas (Captain)– Hard hitting, unforgiving loose
forward will help shore a leaky defence, and may just put an end to
teams attempting to throw their weight around when they face the Hawks…
Ricky Gregory – last years top try scorer, he will be looking to
improve on that tally (10) and will be have a key role in game plays.
His defence is as solid as they come, and he will benefit from playing
alongside experienced players.
Leon Malcolm-Downs – Young,
pacey and powerful, Leon is my tip for
top try scorer this season. One of the best players in last summers RLC,
he proved that he has the capabilities to score past tough defences. Not
many Pennine 5 wingers will enjoy facing him this year.
Craig Short – Injured for the start of the season, his aggression
and drive will be missed. One of the best backs to the walls defenders
in the team.
Rob Ridgley – injury cut short his season last year, but his
imminent return in October will be welcomed by all his team mates. A
great tackler and always willing to take the ball forward.
Harry Whales – it was no coincidence that Harry came back, and
the Hawks stopped conceding. A great fullback, fantastic awareness and
deceptively strong, he is always one of the first names on any Hawks
teamsheet.
Young player to watch:
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Luke Holt – Prop forward with extremely quick feet who has already represented his country, his game will come on leaps and bounds playing alongside older, more experienced forwards.
Main Player to watch:
Neil Harrison – Lightning fast half back, another player who is
surprisingly powerful for his size. Added to the squad late last year
and is still finding his feet, but a bit more time getting to know his
team mates should make him a lot more productive this year.
The Hawks train down at the Hillsborough Arena, under the guidance of
Former Eagle Lynton Stott.
The first team is coached by another
ex-Eagle, Daryl Jackson.
Training is at 6:30 every Thursday, and games are played on a Saturday.
Players of all ages and experience are welcome, just drop in on a
Thursday and meet us.