National 2 South

HENLEY Hawks ensured they will take the title with victory over Worthing on Saturday after a 32-8 success at Shelford.

Hawks scored two late tries, despite being down to 14 men, which earned them a crucial bonus-point victory.

If Henley defeat leaders Worthing at Dry Leas, the Sussex side will not be able to surpass their points tally.

Hawks have a vastly superior points difference, which would decide the title if both sides finish on 24 wins.

Henley took the lead at Shelford with a penalty from fly half Will Robinson on 18 minutes.

Shelford’s Richard Brady replied in kind, before fellow centre Andrew Scott squeezed over in the corner.

Hawks hit back immediately, when prop Dave Manning was driven over and Robinson converted for a 10-8 half-time lead.

Scrum half Luke Carter’s opportunist try gave Henley breathing space, with Robinson adding a penalty.

Hawks had to defend well and suffered a blow with the sin-binning of centre Tom Allen.

This seemed to fire Henley up and they produced arguably their try of the season.

Skipper Martin Nutt started an 80-metre move involving six players, which was ended by full back Liam O’Neill going over and Robinson converting.

Deep into injury time, Hawks increased the pressure and drove Shelford back from a five-metre scrum.

Matt Payne, now playing at No 8, touched down for Robinson to convert the try.

Henley lost 49-5 at Worthing in November, which ended their 100 per cent start to the season.

But Hawks are in great from, having won their last ten matches since losing 19-15 at Launceston on January 26.