Yanco-Wamoon showed plenty of fight in their season opener against Waratahs but ultimately run out of legs in a 34-18 defeat at Yanco Sportsground.
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The Waratahs were able to make a strong start to the game with two tries in the opening eight minutes before the Hawks were able to hit back with Troy Preston able to dive over after a short charge at the line.
The visitors were able to restore their advantage, with Ben Taminisave able to dive over in the corner after the Waratahs were able to switch the play and make the most of the space on the wing.
A good set play for the Hawks right on the halftime siren had the margin reduced to four points, with Talalelei Faoa putting up a kick that was well gathered by the Hawks winger, who got the ball down in the corner to see the Waratahs leading 16-12 at the break.
The Hawks continued their good roll with Elwyn Ravu able to spin his way out of a tackle to score under the post and give his side the lead for the first time in the game.
Pili Maiava was able to make the most of a long break from Taminisave to get over the line before Tom Sellars was able to make a strong burst up the middle of the Hawks defence to see his side leading 28-18 with 18 minutes remaining.
As the Hawks looked to find a quick try to get themselves into striking distance, they looked to kick on the first tackle, but Taminisave was able to gather the ball uncontested and score in the corner to wrap up the 34-18 win over the Hawks.
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Waratahs co-coach Trey Woodland was happy with how his side started the season.
"I think we have a fair bit to work on with our fitness, but it was a good hit out to start," he said.
"We gave a fair few penalties away, but we stuck strong and stuck to our defence which we pride ourselves on, so I'm really happy with that."
There is one injury concern for the Waratahs with Adam Twigg, who was forced from the field in the opening 20 minutes with an ankle injury and was unable to return.
"He stepped on someone's foot, and he has gone over on it," he said.
"We will give him the week and see how he is going at Thursday night at training."
The Waratahs will now prepare themselves for a clash with their arch-rivals Black and Whites at Exies Oval on Sunday.
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