Sunderland Chiefs 5 Blackburn Hawks 2;

Blackburn Hawks 8 Billingham Eagles 5

HAWKS boss Bobby Haig last night paid tribute to his spirited young side as he celebrated a memorable victory over league leaders Billingham.

After tasting defeat the night before in the Border League to a strong Sunderland side, Haig was quick to praise his players for a terrific performance in this English Division One (North) match.

"The boys were excellent," said a delighted Haig. "Everyone worked for each other and the team seemed to gel better than last week, so I am very happy at the moment.

"It would have been nice to get the win last night as well, but Sunderland are a great side so we aren't too disappointed, especially after such a good display tonight.

Dan Mackriel was in good form again with four goals, but Haig was more concerned with the bigger picture.

"Dan played well and I managed to get on the scoresheet as well, but the main thing is that it was a good team performance.

"I think I have my squad together for the season now, the players we have brought in have settled in well and hopefully we can follow this up with a few more wins between now and the end of the campaign."

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