Henley's Youthful Spirit Triumphs Over Wycombe in 3-1 Victory

Fresh from a 1-2 defeat away to Eastcote the previous week, in a game against a team Henley had hoped to record 3 points, the sole Henley goal coming in the last 10 minutes of a scrappy encounter from a short corner strike by Jamie Taylor, Henley returned to Jubilee park looking to recapture the form they’d shown in previous weeks.

In an electrifying clash at Henley's home ground, the 5th team showcased their burgeoning youthful talent, with six colts out of twelve on the match day roster, five of whom were under 14. Despite Wycombe's seasoned lineup, the early moments of the game revealed their intent to play the match with the same vigour and aggression as they would against a full team of adults.

The game started at a frantic pace, with both sides guilty of lack of composure on the bal, but it was young Oliver Whale who seized his moment in the 6th minute, scoring Henley's opening goal and marking his debut league goal in men's hockey. The remainder of the first half saw both sides engaged in a relentless back-and-forth, with Robin Feasey, Henley's goalkeeper, exhibiting typical composure, supported by a stalwart defence comprising Jon Williams, Chris Proudfoot and Simon Taylor.

At halftime, Henley regrouped, emphasising the importance of composure and sticking to their game plan. Their strategic passing and cohesive teamwork yielded several near misses and a rare short corner opportunity, brilliantly converted by James Edgel with a powerful drag flick.

As the second half unfolded, Henley capitalised on Wycombe's reduced numbers, with a player sidelined due to a yellow card as Dom Proudfoot extended Henley's lead with a goal, further solidifying their advantage. Despite Wycombe's late surge, fashioning a goal from close range with only two minutes remaining, Henley maintained their composure and thwarted Wycombe's attempts in the final moments with a short corner as the whistle blew, clinching a satisfying 3-1 victory.

Henley's win against tough opposition again underscores the potential of their youthful squad and sets the stage for an exciting run into the last few matches of the season.

Henley 5th Lineup: Robin Feasey, Jon Williams, Chris Proudfoot, Jamie Taylor, Dom Proudfoot, Toby Lane, Tomas Chamberlain, Simon Taylor, James Edgel, James Lane, Oliver Whale, Ed Newbold.