Milton Keynes send Ladies 1s into a spin

Henley were determined from the offset and settled straight into the game, with exciting play down the right hand side led by Kat Green, Captain Georgie Metcalfe and Emma Buckham-Hedges. Milton Keynes, known for being ruthless hockey players, hit Henley hard, knocking players off their feet and piling pressure onto Henley’s attacking play. However, the amber and blues dug their heels in and with controlled, tactical play through the middle of the pitch by Jemma Barham, Ellie Roseff and Vice-Captain Louisa England, the ball soon found the back of Milton Keynes’ net scored by England. Milton Keynes retaliated with strong runs, but Henley held firm with endless courageous tackles made by defenders Sophie Hoskins, Kath Draycott and Green.

In the second half, Milton Keynes meant business and attacked hard and fast. Unfortunately, the repeated onslaught tired Henley and Milton Keynes won several penalty corners and were able to level the scoreboard. For a 15-minute period, it seemed Henley had driven around one too many roundabouts and found themselves shaky in their play which the opposition capitalized on, finding a fracture in Henley’s defence and scoring. But Henley were not ready to put their sticks down. Led by forwards Charlotte Cockerton, Billie Moore and Buckham-Hedges, Henley fought hard with repeated attacks across the pitch, supported tenaciously by midfielders Katie Butler and Mel Joyce. Henley won a flurry of penalty corners but their well-rehearsed routines failed to deliver. Unfortunately, it was all a little too late.

Next week sees Henley Ladies 1s playing at home against 2nd in the league, Witney. Pushback is 11.45am at Jubilee Park. Please come and show your support!