This proved to be a long arduous trip for the Hawks to face a Norwich side that boasts the third best defense on points conceded. However, having only mustered a paltry 91 points all season, a figure their defense had contributed to as well, this game looked on paper to be a tight defensive battle and would probably go to the side that made the least mistakes. The Hawks on the other hand have a shot themselves in the foot a few times this season and were about to again.

The Devils caused most of the damage in the first quarter. The visitors’ defense held firm, forcing a James Tovell field goal attempt. His unerring boot split the uprights to give Norwich a slim 3 – 0 advantage. The Hawks had little difficulty in mounting a replying drive, moving the ball effectively down to the red zone, something they managed to do most of the afternoon. Crucially they fumbled the ball away while in good field position, something that has blighted them throughout the game. Liam Moralee, pounced on the ball, sped away from a stunned Hawk offense and scampered the best part of seventy yards for a shock six points. Tovell slotted the ball home for the extra points and Clyde Valley side suddenly found themselves 11 – 0 adrift when seconds earlier it looked as if they were destined to take at the very least a 6 – 3 lead.

The second period was again a close run affair with great defense and misfiring offenses on both sides. A David Orr field goal bought the Hawks to 11 - 3, but every time they threatened the Devils line they managed to lose possession. With the Devils hard-hitting defense and the Hawks innate ability to make mistakes this looked like being a frustrating afternoon for the travelling side. Despite having less of the ball Norwich took a healthy 11 – 3 lead into half time.

The third quarter saw much of the same, a strong resolute and fascinating defensive battle. Reilly adding a safety to increase the Devils’ defensive tally and his side’s score to 13 – 3 by the end of the third.

The Hawks rallied with a safety of their own in the fourth, as they tried to force their way back into the game. The Devils defense on the other hand did what it does best, namely blunting and attempts from their opponents. With the game coming to a close the Hawks quarterback looked to have kicked the ball out of the end zone giving up another two points to defensive pressure when a safety was signalled, leaving the final score at 15 – 5.

The Hawks were left to reflect on lost opportunities on their long trek home, going down to a side whose defense had scored twice as many points against them as their offense. However, with the progression of their Falcons junior side, Clyde Valley will be back next year stronger and better. If they can minimize their mistakes, something they need to work on, they will be challenging once again for honours and look certain to improve on a highly creditable season.

The Devils move on to face the challenge of defending champions London Warriors. On head to head this season they are tied at one game all with the Norwich defense even keeping the Warriors scoreless in their first meeting. This should be one of the games of the season with the Warriors going for their third consecutive final and should not be missed if at all possible.