Relations between the two clubs have been close for years and likewise, usually, the scores. No change here then as the visitors contained the challenge of a Hawks side containing two ex Albanians, Sam Lunnon and Toby Evans, despite a nail-biting finish.

Ben Alexander is making a habit of crossing the opposition line and obliged again with the first score last Saturday, peeling off the back of a driving maul in the first moments for Sam Jones to improve.

Then, at the other end of the pitch, Evans fed George Wood who scampered over wide enough out to deny Max Titchener a difficult conversion.

All this in the first five minutes!

Jones, high up on the NCA points parade extended the narrow OA lead with a penalty after a quarter of an hour; but it was nip and tuck as yet, all the more so when back row Will Benning made his mark and Titchener’s kick put the hosts in front for the first time. Then Jones’ unerring boot struck again and the penalty regained the advantage but his thunder was stolen by Harry Legg whose unstoppable serpentine run from halfway hamstrung any Hawks defensive efforts. Jones added the two points and Albanians’ handy eight point credit signalled the break.

Henley regrouped after the restart and, again from a driving maul, Emery pulled a try back. But his efforts were largely nullified when disciplinary lapses saw Rory Mason and Leo Webb sidelined within a minute of each other. Two players down, Hawks task was to prove beyond even their mighty resolve and things got tougher when visiting scrum half Bailey Thomas found his way to the line after a great break. The last of Jones’ kicks put OAs in a commanding position.

Winger Webb had other ideas and made fine amends for his ten minute rest with a five pointer, converted by Titchener, inside the last ten minutes.

Albanian pulse rates soared when a great kick from a penalty took play to the visitors’ five metre line. In a tense moment the ball left the hooker’s hand towards the waiting lock. But, expertly, just enough pressure was put on him to bring on a fumble and a delighted OA defence cleared to touch as the final whistle went.

This was a great way to end the year; two consecutive wins on the road is first rate in anyone’s book. Hawks had a proud, unbeaten home record and Albanians results have been chequered at times. Yet, looking back, there have been a number of narrow losses where, inexplicably, the rub of the green (for that read application!) did not quite go as would have been wished. Here was an example of Albanians being masters of their own destiny. Control and discipline were excellent throughtout and technical matters went as hoped. There is power strength and skill in this squad and all can enjoy a Happy Holiday.

January’s challenges are but a few weeks away and can be met with optimism.

We wish you all a very Happy Xmas and a healthy, prosperous New Year.

Brian Quinn,

Roving Reporter