Henley victorious at Oxford University

On Saturday 27th February, Henley travelled to Oxford to face potential relegation rivals Oxford University. With potentially up to four teams being relegated from the league, this was a proverbial 6-pointer.

On the back of some decent performances, but little points to show from it, Henley started the match very well and dominated the early exchanges. The midfield triangle of Hetherington, Joyce and Foster overpowering the Oxford University midfield, which allowed Hibberd and Taylor space to attack on the wings. On the 15 minute mark Henley’s early dominance was rewarded with a well-taken goal from veteran striker Chris Green, who latched on to Joyce’s through ball from the centre spot. Ten minutes later Henley doubled their lead though captain Ed Foster, after a pinpoint cross from Ross Hibberd. Foster dispatching a powerful slap at the far post, giving the home side’s goal keeper no chance.

Henley kept their lead up until half time, and despite chances for the forward line of Walter, Joseph and Ralph, were unable to add a third goal as the second half progressed. With 10 minutes left on the clock, Oxford University pulled a goal back through a short corner flick which slipped under goal keeper Roy Cox’s right arm.

Following a series of yellow cards, Henley were on the back foot for the final minutes and it took some dogged defending by centre backs Rob Rowe and man of the match Robbie Mortimer, to ensure Henley came out with three vital points. The win sees Henley overtake Oxford University in the league with 5 matches left to play in the season.