THEY'RE expected to be one of the premiership contenders, but Pascoe Cup newcomers Hanwood have been sent a warning of the challenge that awaits after battling to a 1-0 win over Henwood Park at Rawlings Park on Saturday night.
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A Michael Cimador goal about 30 minutes into the match was enough for the Griffith club to secure all three points, with a potential late Hawks equaliser ruled out through offside.
After belting South Wagga 8-0 in round one in their return to the league after a 19-year absence, Hanwood were held to a scoreless draw against Young in their most recent encounter.
Hanwood coach Anthony Agresta fully expects Wagga clubs to lift against them in an effort to ensure the trophy doesn't head to Griffith.
"That's part and parcel of it, what sport is all about is those rivalries," Agresta said.
"The games have been hard and tough but there's been nothing silly and that's what you want, you don't want to go out there and be bruise free."
"There's going to be plenty of tough games and that's exactly why we wanted to be in the comp, to play these tough games week in, week out and get different challenges."
The Hawks were unlucky to salvage something from the game, goalkeeper Nathan Trinder named player of the match after pulling off a handful of fine saves from close range.
After scoring just one goal the past two games, Agresta said adjusting to a new league and playing style will take time to click.
"We're still trying to find our feet but the main thing is we're still keeping clean sheets and picking up points along the way," he said.
"At this point of the season that's all you want to do, to stay with the top bracket of teams."
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