Recap
Halifax were in for a shock today as they visited South Leeds Stadium; the Hawks were one try from causing a real upset but Halifax just managed to steal the win this afternoon. A late try and a drop goal did it for them, and as Jimmy Keinhorst was recalled by Leeds being replaced by super league regular Chris Clarkson the game made for exciting viewing.
The home side got off to a slow start and were on the wrong side of the scoreboard early in the first half and conceding points on the back of a string of mistakes it was disappointing as Ross Divorty touched down with only a few minutes on the clock. Today’s game was an important one for the Hawks as they looked to prove themselves in the league and compete against the top teams. Stuart Kain re-called to the side was in top form supported by Lee Mapals and Richard Moore were all threatening the opponent’s line. David March kicked the ball down field on the free play opportunity and it was a shame the skipper didn’t have the legs to create something from it. The bad spell which followed saw Halifax scoring twice in quick succession Thackeray and Reittie both grabbing tries. Despite debatable decisions shadowing both as the passes looked forward the Hawks trailed 18-0. Recovering from this poor start the kicking game was greatly improved playing a big part this afternoon. Liam Hood on the restart with a massive boot as Halifax looked confident it would sail dead but perfectly measured it bounced in the field of play and the turnover fired up his team mates. Andy Yates dummied his way over the line early in the set for the home sides first try a great effort from the young forward whose form continues to improve. From the kick off it was try time again this one going to James Coyle with a tactical change of direction he slid over on his debut pushing Hunslet right back into it.
The second half opened in disappointing fashion as lazy defenders made it easy for the visitors to run one in under the sticks. Ignoring the margin and not disheartened the boys kicked early in the set as they asked plenty of questions of their opponents. Luke Haigh on his return made plenty of yards from the rook then a ball out to Coyle who got it away to Liam Welham before finally knocking it on to Stuart Kain who crossed the whitewash to push his team to within 6 points. Lee Mapals continuing to earn his place in the squad was pulled to the ground just 5 metres short after a full length of the field sprint. John Oakes powered the ball further towards the line on the next one and Liam Welham was across 2 plays later as he linked into the line perfectly. The fans were out of their seats as David March added the extras from the touchline to pull things level at 24-24.
Holding on for the final stanza would be the ultimate test in soaring heat but Halifax pulled the win out of the bag as Scott Murrell put in an attacking kick that bounced over the head of fullback Watson and into the hands off Murrell himself. The try wasn’t enough to convince Halifax fans that the points were secure who were obviously feeling the pressure from Barry’s side and landed a drop goal again to that man Murrell to finish things off at 24-31.
The Hawks were outstanding this afternoon and a real team effort had almost earned them the win. A bonus point against a top 4 team like Halifax is positive and the display will encourage the confidence to show in the games they face. Another home fixture for the Hawks in 2 weeks this time Swinton Lions are the visitors to South Leeds.
Hunslet RLFC Line up
1. Jimmy Watson
2. Lee Mapals
Sponsored by: Leeds Bacon Company Ltd
3. John Oakes
Sponsored by: Leeds Bacon Company Ltd
4. Liam Welham
Sponsored by: Adrian Jinks
5. Stuart Kain
Sponsored by: Beth Hampshire
6. Thomas Coyle
Sponsored by: Yorkshire Signs
7. James Coyle
Sponsored by: Yorkshire Signs
8. Michael Haley
9. Liam Hood
Sponsored by: Colin & Kath Smith
10. Richard Moore
Sponsored by: Available Call 0113 2712730
11. James Houston
Sponsored by: Stephen Bower Bespoke Joinery
12. Tommy Haughey
Sponsored by: Dawn Caley
13. David March
Sponsored by: A & R Construction
14. Andrew Yates
Sponsored by: Village Urban Resorts South Leeds
15. Luke Haigh
Sponsored by: Elliott & Ewan Green
16. Luke Menzies
Sponsored by: Fred & Jane Hopkins
17. Chris Clarkson
Sponsored by: Available Call 0113 2712730
Timeline
00:37 Andrew Yates Try
00:38 David March Goal
00:39 James Coyle Try
00:40 David March Goal
01:01 Stuart Kain Try
01:02 David March Goal
01:09 Liam Welham Try
01:10 David March Goal