Havant & Waterlooville overcome early scare to defeat Tonbridge Angels

Jonah Ayunga was on target for the Hawks at Tonbridge. Picture: Dave Haines

THE HAWKS bounced back to winning ways with a 3-1 victory at Tonbridge Angels in National League South, writes Glen Thorpe.

Paul Doswell’s men had to overcome an early scare before first-half goals from Jonah Ayunga, Nicky Bailey and Andy Drury delivered the visitors three points at the Longmead Stadium.

The Westleigh Park side made one change from their 0-0 draw with Chelmsford, with Bennie Read replacing Rory Deacon.

There was also a spot on the bench Danny Kedwell, having missed the opening five games because of injury.

The Hawks made the worst-possible start and found themselves behind in just the third minute when Tommie HESSION-HARRIS tapped the ball home from close range.

Doswell’s men responded in the superb fashion, though, and were level four minutes later.

Tonbridge were slow to clear and Alfie Rutherford slipped in AYUNGA, who composed himself before finishing from 18 yards.

The visitors then took the lead in the 17th minute through an excellent strike from BAILEY when he placed his 20-yard free-kick into the top corner.

The game was very much end to end. On 24 minutes, Tonbridge right-back Alex Bentley broke infield and cracked a 25-yarder off the post.

But sustained pressure from the Hawks led to their third goal on the stroke of half-time.

The ball fell for DRURY, who sidestepped a defender before smashing into the roof of the net.

It wasn’t until the midway through the second period when D’Sean Theobold mustered an effort on goal for Angels, but it was well saved by visiting keeper RossWorner down at his near post.

A weak shot by Roarie Deacon easily collected by the Tunbridge keeper.

On 89 minutes, the hosts were again inches away when a Jared Small hit the post and rebounded to safety.

But the Hawks were well worth the win are back in action when they host Eastbourne tomorrow (3pm).