Hawks air it out in blowout win

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The number 1-ranked WJ Mouat Hawks took care of business as usual in their 62 to 22 victory over the Handsworth Royals on Friday. 

Mouat came out fast, using their recipe for success that's worked all season long. The recipe in question? Elijah Black and the Mouat offence airing it out, of course.

Black and his receiving core continue to put up insane numbers. The starting pivot went 22-28 for 488 yards for 8 touchdowns and no interceptions. 

Max Pratt hauled in nine catches for 221 yards and four touchdowns. Santiago Llarena added five catches for 69 yards and two touchdowns. Treyson Harley chipped in four catches for 123 yards and one touchdown.

The Hawks' passing game struck on the first snap of the game, as Black hit Pratt for a lightning-quick opening score. Black found his favourite target again for majors on the Hawks' next two possessions as Mouat ran away with this one early.

Santiago Llarena added to more scores in the passing game and Charlie Franson added another on the ground. Pair that with suffocating defence and the Hawks found themselves up with a staggering 41-6 lead at the half.  

Defensively, conference all-star Aarav Bhandari posted three tackles and an interception. Llarena added three tackles and one sack as the Hawks caused chaos in the Royals' backfield all night.  

Hawk's head coach, Andrew Harder praised his group up front postgame. He noted that the offensive line protected well and that coach Rick Pennel had the unit ready.

Harder added that the team must tighten up on defense. He stressed the need for better tackling as the Hawks get ready for New West. He pointed to their strong running back and physical line as a real test. 

The Hawks will now prepare for that quarter-final matchup next Friday, as the ground and pound Hyacks will take on Black and the Hawks' aerial attack.