In 480 BC, 300 brave Spartan warriors fought back heroically against the Persians. In 1415 AD, a vastly outnumbered English force, devastated the French at Agincourt with their longbows, and in 2025, a group of unruly 10 year olds, came back to win an important game of football at the Sports Park.

Coach Ian took charge of the Hawks on their journey. And as usual, it was a game of two halves:

First Half: The match kicked off under beautiful skies, with the sun shining down. Thankfully, it had finally decided to take a break from its relentless pursuit of rain for the last 6 months.

Both teams showed great energy and determination from the start, with Thomas and Max dominating midfield and Aaron causing concern in the opposition ranks up front. Early on, the Hawks had several chances, including a powerful effort from Aaron that hit the crossbar, but the Onslow goalkeeper turned into a human wall, making a series of outstanding saves from Max and Arthur to keep his team in the game, and despite Albury Hawks dominating the early exchanges, it was Onslow FC who surprised everyone by taking an early two-goal lead against the run of play with some quality finishing.

The Hawks were caught off guard but managed to regroup in time for half time talk from Coach Ian. It was obviously a rousing half time speech (or perhaps threatening), as the second half was a game changer.

Second Half: The second half saw Albury Hawks come out with renewed vigor, like a bunch of over-caffeinated squirrels on a mission. Lucian and Kieran solid in defence, the ever energetic Freddie sitting just in front, and Aaron and Arthur upfront, but it was the fox in the box, George, who latched onto a dream-like cross from Will and scored a beauty of a goal. Soon afterwards, due to relentless pressure, the Hawks were awarded a penalty, and Arthur stepped up to the spot. With ice in his little veins, he struck the ball sweetly into the back of the net, bringing the score level. The Hawks now had their tails up (do Hawks have tails?), and the intensity on the pitch reached new heights. Kieran - battling away in defence and midfield to wrestle back control. Could we go on to win it? It was certainly a game of two halves, and both teams were giving 110%. Onslow FC's defence was tough to crack but the Hawks were relentless in trying to unlock it.. The decisive moment came late in the final quarter when Aaron unleashed a long-range effort that rocketed into the back of the net, sparking a delirium on the sidelines.

A great game of football played in good spirit and atmosphere from the coaches, players and supporters!

Man of the Match: George (Albury Hawks) - The 'fox in the box', George, demonstrated incredible speed, skill and determination, making him the standout player of the match and the hero of the day.

Special Thanks: A big thanks to Abs for all the hot chocolates at the end of the game, keeping everyone warm and happy!

Added by coach Abs:
Thank you to Coaches Ian and Percy for taking the leads for the match.

Worthy commendations - really feel we need to mention the hard work of each player given the nature of the fight they showed -
Lucian - ever-present and so reliable - jus behind man-of the-match this week - but always steady and tidy. So incredibly consistent - a coach's dream. Willian - whenever he is on the pitch, the defence appears solid - brining a power to the team. Max - he tireless running and willingness to make the pass has not gone unnoticed. Freddie - pushed to play a defensive midfield role - never complaining, but offered a tireless combative display. Keiran - not sure there are enough superlative - one of the driving forces of the Albury team - wear's his heart on his sleeve. Arthur - in a rich goalscoring form of late - working hard down the wing and an ice-cool penalty today ! Aaron - had to become the steel in midfield, battling to wrestle control from the opposition. Thomas - moved to defence to help bring a calmness and football brain into the mix - helped start the attacks with his decisive passing.