National 2 South

RYAN Newman’s late converted try earned Henley Hawks a 19-17 comeback win at Old Albanians.

The former Oxford Harlequins flanker, who was named Henley’s man-of-the-match, broke through decisively on the left, and full back James Comben converted from out wide.

Albanians laid seige to the Hawks’ 22 for the remaining eight minutes, but Jim Shanhan could not find the target with two drop-goal attempts.

Henley were outscored three tries to one, but dominated the territory and led 6-0 thanks to two Comben penalties.

But centre Johannes Lombaard burst through under the posts and Zak Vinnicombe converted for 7-6.

A loose Henley line-out throw allowed the hosts to drive prop Charlie Hughes over for a try.

Henley brought on scrum half Jack Shaylor, flanker Matt Payne centre Alex Cheesman – a loan signing from Wasps – at half time, but could add only a third Comben penalty.

Some sloppy defence allowed prop Mario Cecere to go over near the corner flag for 17-9.

Hawks replied with Comben’s fourth penalty, after replacement Bickle Lloyd was sin-binned, before that late try.