Henley Hawks’ mediocre start to the National 2 South season continued with a 36-25 defeat to Richmond at Dry Leas.
They had a chance to grab two bonus points late on, but fumbled a pass.
Mark Hart’s penalty gave Richmond an early lead, then they scored twice from driving mauls, with Jono Farmer and Kris Greene going over, Hart converting one.
Fly half Paul Trendell’s penalty and No 8 Jack Hennings’ try reduced the arrears, but Andy Saunders’s score, converted by Hart, made it 22-8.
Trendell kicked a second penalty before Andrew Simmie and Gavin Hart were gifted converted tries.
Two tries in five minutes from prop Rowan Fuller and lock Oliver Atkinson, both converted by replacement fly half Will Fulton gave Hawks hope, but they weren’t enough.
Saturday’s match at Lydney is now a must-win game.
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