HENLEY Hawks were forced to hang on for a 19-5 victory at struggling Barking in National 2.

Playing some crisp rugby at the start, Hawks were 19 points up in as many minutes and it seemed that Barking were in for a thrashing.

But only some excellent defence and wayward home passing stopped the scoreline getting closer in the end.

Left wing Chris Simmons bagged both of Henley's opening tries inside seven minutes.

The first was created by scrum half Steve Drake and the second in midfield by No 8 Dave Archer.

Fly half Mitch Burton converted both the second and a third try on 19 minutes when Archer touched down from a pushover.

Burton's clearances kept Barking at bay and Hawks came close to a fourth try before Drake was sin-binned for stamping.

Barking went on the offensive in the second half and were rewarded with a try for full back Elliott Harvey.

Henley still created half chances for centre Luke Burns, Drake and winger Sam Caven, but this was a disappointing game.

They also saw replacement Rowan Fuller, Archer and flanker Stean Williams all leave the field with injuries.