NATIONAL 1

HENLEY Hawks’ relegation fears were heightened by a last-gasp 22-18 defeat at Blackheath.

Hawks led 18-15 after fly half James Comben slotted a penalty on 74 minutes, but were undone by flanker Dave Allen’s try, converted by fly half Simon Whatling.

Henley are now one point above the drop zone, but have played two more games than Cinderford.

However, with Worthing, Loughborough Students and Tynedale all to play, Hawks can control their own destiny.

Comben kicked an early penalty, but Blackheath centre Richard Windsor slipped through to score a try converted by Whatling.

Although Hawks had hooker Liam Dwyer yellow-carded, their pack held sway and flanker Matt Payne went over on 36 minutes, Comben’s conversion hitting a post.

Blackheath led 12-8 with a try from full back Michael Canty.

In the second half, Comben stepped through to touch down and converted the try himself, but Whatling replied with a penalty.

Comben’s second penalty restored Hawks’ lead, but Blackheath snatched victory.