Shaw and Fundell On Target as Boys Beat Reading

This U14 boys squad raised the bar today with an entertaining match against Reading. Henley created many shooting opportunities and goal scoring chances but were initially unable to break down the resolute Reading defence.

Henley finally managed to break the deadlock in the second quarter. Reading defence cleared straight to Shaw whose shot fired past the prone Reading goalie into the middle of the net. More chances went begging as Henley surged forward with McAllister effective down the right flank and Fundell pouncing on loose balls in the D. The Reading goal keeper was superb, proving a match for the Henley forwards Johnson (Jamie) and Harding (Thomas).

Selvester, in goal, and the defence of Bonser, Bryant, Rankin, Heggie and Johnson (Will) were rarely challenged in the first half of the game and were able to push up to support the midfield. Williams, Wood (Archie) and Phillips ensured the Henley team retained width and Wood (Benny) was strong in the centre of midfield.

Cheesman, marshalling the defence higher in support of the midfield, found many opportunities to set up chances for Henley, eventually his through ball finding Fundell for the final touch for a two goal lead. Reading, with some talented midfielders, tried to counter but Henley, defending high up the pitch, made life difficult for the Reading attack.

Shaw, man of the match, netted his second goal in the final quarter, hitting the right hand corner with a fine strike from the edge of the D. But Henley let Reading back into the game with a well taken breakaway goal.