Henley quick off the mark at Spencer

Henley men’s 1st XI continued their fine start to the league season with a resolute 3-0 away win against South Premier League Division 1 veterans Spencer HC.

Henley had the perfect start with a goal inside the opening minutes. Captain Ed Foster released down the right flank, before crossing the ball across the face of the goal to pyjama-wearing half marathon man Geoff Joseph, who managed to shake off his cycling wounds to finish with a trademark hit and roll.

Henley looked dangerous on the break and came close to extending their lead, but Spencer began to exert their presence and looked comfortable in possession. Henley held the lead into the break, however, thanks to unwavering defence from Mani Kochar and man-of-the-match Rob Mortimer, but knew they couldn’t rely on the one goal advantage.

Henley did manage to extend the lead shortly after the restart, Chris Green again finding the goal from the back post for 2-0. From here on in the game began to open up as Spencer searched for a way back in. It was here the visitors dealt the killer blow, Chris Green snaking down the base line and playing it back to Ross Hibberd to turn into the goal.

Spencer continued to press in the closing period, which saw a flurry of cards, but Henley held on to claim their first clean sheet of the season and cap an accomplished performance.

Henley play host to league leaders Old Georgians at Jubilee Park on Saturday 17th October.