Hawks will fight all the way in league title bid

Alfie Rutherford. Picture: Habibur RahmanAlfie Rutherford. Picture: Habibur Rahman
Alfie Rutherford. Picture: Habibur Rahman
SHAUN GALE insists the Hawks are up for a Ryman League premier division title dogfight as they prepare to go to Enfield Town tomorrow (3pm).

The Hawks are just one point behind leaders Bognor following their 1-1 draw at Tonbridge Angels in midweek but with a game in hand.

Gale felt the performance at Tonbridge provided further evidence of the Hawks battling qualities.

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‘We showed we are up for a scrap and won’t be bullied by anyone,’ said Gale.

‘The players all stood up for themselves and even when we went a goal down fairly early on, never gave up.

‘They kept going right to the end and eventually got their reward with the equaliser.

‘The key is to maintain this right to the end of the season.

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‘It was an excellent point against a team full of experience and big strong players.

‘Since day one we have been the team that all the others want to beat.

‘Sitting in second place we are there to be shot at.

‘It is something we are aware of and we have to deal with.

‘There are no easy games because no-one is going to roll over and give us three points.’

Jason Prior’s goal eight minutes from time helped the Hawks earn a point.

They have lost just twice on their travels this season.

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But the London side won at Westleigh Park earlier in the season.

Bradbury is waiting on the fitness of Dan Strugnell and Alfie Rutherford.

Both players were forced off at Tonbridge through injury.

Strugnell injured his thigh and Rutherford his ribs.

The latter went to hospital for checks.

Hawks have winger Ben Swallow back from his loan spell.

He made an instant impact going on as a late substitute at Tonbridge setting up Prior.

The Welsh winger will be pushing for a place in the starting line-up.

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He has shown he is one player who possesses the ability to unlock opposition defences.

Matt Paterson, George Barker and James Hayter are other options available.

Gale is hoping the team can again show their will to win.

He added: ‘I think we will look back on the point at Tonbridge as an outstanding one.

‘Now we must look to get all three at Enfield.

‘I think the present squad is one of the best I have worked with. There is a terrific spirit in the changing room which translates out onto the pitch.

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‘The players all have the bit between the teeth and want to win it, they are determined to do whatever it takes to be successful.’

Hawks: Young, Molyneaux, Woodford, Harris, Williams, Lewis, Carter, Fogden, Tarbuck, Prior, Paterson, Swallow, Barker, Rutherford, Hayter, Stock, Strugnell

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