Henley Miss Out in Thriller

It was four quarters of pure entertainment for the spectators of this closely fought match, but well drilled Reading showed pace of ball and speed of mind to come out on top. Reading scored in the first quarter but Henley levelled before half time. Reading popped in a second in the third quarter and despite chances for both sides in the final fifteen minutes there were no further goals.

Fundell made his debut for Henley, holding a hockey stick for only the second time ever, and did well both up front on on the wing, his hockey playing future looking bright already. Selvester was again commanding in goal, benefiting from pre-match goal-keeper coaching, and using his usual aggressive style to make a string of saves, many of which involved him being well off his line. Dino Cheesman deservedly picked up another man-of-the-match award for his reliability in the sweeper / centre back role. Fielder picked up another goal and was sprightly throughout, using his natural pace to beat defenders to the ball and create chances. But this was a team effort, from a much improved unit. Davis and Shaw were solid in centre midfield. McAllister and Parsons dominated the wide flanks. Hood, Enzo Cheesman and Hems ably supported the defensive unit. Petrie, another hockey newcomer, showed improvement in attacking and positional awareness, supporting Fielder and McAllister up front.