South Central Women’s Team of the Year, Henley Hockey Women’s 4s, kicked off the new season with a performance that crackled with intent, control and fast-paced attacking flair. Under newly appointed captain, Charlotte Moore, and operating in a refreshed formation to account for squad changes and the demands of higher-tier hockey, Henley delivered a statement victory that set the tone for the season ahead.

From first push back, the team were quick to assert themselves. Charlotte Moore linked sharply with Jenny Buckham-Hedges to find Ali Jean-Jean who carved through the right channel to promptly gain the advantage and win a short corner inside the first minute. Emilia Ziegler injected to Ali who took a shot on goal. The keeper deflected but Emilia was ready to pounce on the left post and with a steely confidence, slotted the ball into the back of the net to allow Henley to take an early lead.

South Berks were rattled, and Henley surged again. Strong defensive organisation, led by Ingrid Johnston, absorbed the opposition’s first meaningful attack before sweepers Sophia Cunliffe and Florence Nelmes transitioned play smoothly into midfield. Florence Moorcroft drove aggressively into the D moments later, forcing another save and keeping Henley firmly on the front foot.

South Berks briefly threatened with a quick turnover, but Henley’s goalkeeper Sophia Price produced a vital stop to maintain the lead. The response was immediate: Henley pushed back into the attacking third, earning another short corner. A slick combination of Ali Jean-Jean to Florence Moorcroft to Emiliza Zielger saw Zielger bury her second of the match, doubling Henley’s advantage before the break.

The second half opened with Henley continuing to dictate tempo and territory. Ali Jean-Jean, Florence Moorcroft and Amy Hill combined for a near‑miss in a crowded D, while Sophia Price remained alert at the opposite end. Henley’s midfield trio then engineered another short corner, stylishly converted by Florence Moorcroft with Evie Quinn’s assist.

With South Berks stretched, Henley closed out the match in emphatic fashion: Jenny Buckham Hedges powered in from the right, driving through defenders to fire home the fourth and final goal, wrapping up a commanding outing that showcased Henley’s readiness for the challenges of a higher league.