They took the competition leaders down to the wire, with a penalty kick after the full-time siren just falling short, allowing the Mustangs to hold on for a 31-30 win.

While they didn't get the win, the difference in the Hawks' side was noticeable with new recruit Adrian Davis taking the reigns from the get-go.

It wasn't long until one of his perfectly-placed kicks allowed Hawks' winger Hayden Bolt to open the scoring for the day.

From then on the first half was back and forth, with the Mustangs responding with two tries.

The Hawks were able to return fire before the break with a further two tries and two penalty goals putting them ahead 22-12 as they headed into the dressing rooms.

The second half saw tough, finals-style footy, with both sides determined to get the upper hand.

Liam Simon and Matt Kirkland both had standout performances leading the go-forward, while Jake Collins worked hard in defence.

Momentum swung the Mustangs way for the majority, but even when Davis was sin-binned during the final quarter of play, the Hawks scored wide to tie the game up 30-all with five minutes to go.

After Macleay slotted a one-pointer, the Hawks were able to break into the opposition 40 with a minute left and receive a penalty.

The kick fell just short as the Mustangs held on for a one-point victory over a gutsy Hawks outfit.

Hayden Bolt, Matt Kirkland, Jake Collins and Beau Lowry were the try-scorers while halfback Adrian Davis kicked five goals.

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The reserve grade boys were able to continue their 2019 form with another important victory, ending the Mustangs' five-game winning streak.

With up to five regular starters out for the trip to Kempsey, a reshuffled lineup stuck to what has been working well and starved the opposition of opportunities with strong defence.

With a 6-4 lead at halftime, the Hawks looked to be settling into rhythm while Macleay were showing signs of frustration.

In the second half the Hawks got out to an 18-4 lead and tensions started to flare from the Mustangs as two players were binned and one sent from the field for dissent and throwing punches.

The Mustangs were able to score a late try after attacking the line for three sets of six, bringing the final score to 18-8.

Sam Whitbread, Bill Ryder and Cameron Dunk scored the four-pointers while Keegan Dodd kicked three goals.

The ladies league tag team got the Hawks' day off to a good start with a 26-12 victory.

With experienced players Bec and Talisa Eason on the sideline, the team played around with some positional changes that took some time to stick, with the ladies down 12-10 at the halftime break.

The second half flowed a lot smoother with the Hawks scoring three unanswered tries to pick up their eighth win from 10 games this season.

Mel Camilleri, Chloe Astorini and Hannah Bolt scored tries, while Molly Duggan picked up a double and Lisa Bullivant kicked three with the boot.

This coming Saturday the Hawks host Old Boys Day.

Junior games throughout the day will be followed by league tag at 3:15, reserve grade at 4:15 and first grade under lights at 5:30pm.

All attending are encouraged to wear an old Hawks jersey or club shirt to show your support.

First grade will be wearing a heritage jersey that will then be auctioned off at Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club following the game.

All sponsors, supporters and public are invited to come along and attend the auction and post-match presentation.

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