Yanco-Wamoon showed plenty of fight in their season opener against Waratahs but ultimately run out of legs in a 34-18 defeat at Yanco Sportsground.
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The Waratahs were able to make a strong start to the game with two tries in the opening eight minutes before the Hawks were able to hit back with Troy Preston able to dive over after a short charge at the line.
The visitors were able to restore their advantage, with Ben Taminisave able to dive over in the corner after the Waratahs were able to switch the play and make the most of the space on the wing.
A good set play for the Hawks right on the halftime siren had the margin reduced to four points, with Talalelei Faoa putting up a kick that was well gathered by the Hawks winger, who got the ball down in the corner to see the Waratahs leading 16-12 at the break.
The Hawks continued their good roll with Elwyn Ravu able to spin his way out of a tackle to score under the post and give his side the lead for the first time in the game.
Pili Maiava was able to make the most of a long break from Taminisave to get over the line before Tom Sellars was able to make a strong burst up the middle of the Hawks defence to see his side leading 28-18 with 18 minutes remaining.
As the Hawks looked to find a quick try to get themselves into striking distance, they looked to kick on the first tackle, but Taminisave was able to gather the ball uncontested and score in the corner to wrap up the 34-18 win over the Hawks.
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Hawks co-coach Troy Preston was proud of the effort his side put in what was their first hit-out as a full unit.
"We are still struggling for numbers and had a few injuries as well but really happy with everyone's effort and everyone's attitude," he said.
"It would have been quite easy to drop our heads and let them run away with it.
"I just thought that in the second half whoever was the more disciplined and who holds on to the ball the most would probably come away with the win."
There is one concern for the Hawks with co-coach Kane Hammond resting a knee injury sustained in the early stages of the game.
The Hawks will hit the road next weekend to take on TLU Sharks.
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