Men's 4s up to 3rd in league

Henley 4th team jumped to 3rd in the league, continuing their strong form early in the season, beating Oxford Hawks 3-1 on Saturday morning. Perhaps not quite fully awake after the 1 hour trip, leaving Henley at 8:30, Henley looked very shaky and Oxford were able to capitalise after some good passing play. Once Henley started to settle into the game, the yellows were able to dictate the play, leading to a sustained period of attacking pressure. Some fantastic skill down the right hand side from Phil Biggs resulted in a flurry of short corners, but Henley still were unable to find their goal, with Ed Newbold coming close on two separate occasions. Henley’s attacking pressure was finally rewarded however, around 20 minutes into the game. Some good recovery play from Marcus Nicholson in the centre of midfield, set Ewan Watkins away who, when faced with the onrushing goalkeeper, found the bottom corner from the top of the D. An injury to Simon Ward meant that Martyn Watkins, who had only traveled as a coach, had to come on. However this turned out to be an inspired substation as he deflected a flying shot off of the line, keeping the score at 1-1 and had a stellar game.

After another period of brilliant attacking play, the away side managed to find their second goal. Quick thinking from Enzo Cheesman, resulted in a tap in for Ewan Watkins to grab his second goal of the game and put Henley firmly in the ascendancy. By this stage in the match the tired legs of the Oxford side started to show and Henley were able to demonstrate their attacking flair. The ever prolific Tim Cima got his goal with a fine reverse finish from the top of the D, and ensured that Henley go into their next match after another brilliant all round performance, where they will be looking to continue this strong early form.