National 2 South

HENLEY Hawks left it late to pip Hartpury College 22-20 in their top-of-the-table battle at Dry Leas.

No 8 Robbie Stapley’s second try in stoppage time and fly half James Comben’s conversion earned leaders Hawks a crucial victory.

Replacement fly half Tim Stevenson had an even later penalty to snatch it for the visitors, but his effort from near the touchline went wide.

Hartpury’s starting fly half Luke Cozens put them ahead with a first-minute penalty after Henley were caught off-side from the kick-off.

Henley hit back when great forward pressure led to Stapley powering over for his first try, converted by Comben.

Hartpury scrum half Bradley Field sneaked across from a ruck five metres out, which Cozens converted for a 10-7 advantage.

The lead changed hands again when Hawks flanker Ryan Newman smuggled his way over.

A penalty apiece from Cozens and Comben left Henley 15-13 up at the break.

Hartpury hooker and captain Chris Fortey touched down from a driven lineout, Cozens converting.

Flanker Matt Payne led the way as Henley came on strong and Fortey was sin-binned after a series of penalties.

Hawks made the extra man count when Stapley made the hard yards for his second try and Comben converted.

Henley wing Richard Briggs was yellow-carded for a dangerous tackle on Stephan Reynolds, but Stevenson could not take advantage.