Henley Men’s 4s brought their season to a positive close with a 3–2 win away at Wycombe, combining controlled hockey with just enough late drama to keep things interesting.

With their league status already secured, Henley travelled with a reshuffled side but showed little sign of disruption. Debutant Zac Viney looked immediately at home in defence, forming a composed back line alongside Grocock and Proudfoot that kept Wycombe quiet for much of the first half. In truth, goalkeeper Tomas Chamberlain was largely a spectator early on — a reflection of Henley’s control.

Further forward, Freddie Woodfin marked his men’s debut with an assured performance, while Gilligan and Davis dictated the tempo in midfield. Henley created a steady stream of chances and, after a few near misses, took the lead through Ian Rechner, who applied a composed finish to a well-worked move.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Rechner added his second of the afternoon, and Gilligan extended the lead from a penalty corner — Manwaring’s calm control finally helping Henley make the most of a set-piece routine that has, at times this season, proved elusive.

Wycombe’s youthful side responded with two late goals to set up a nervy finish, but Henley held firm to see out the win — and, perhaps just as importantly, to ensure Captain Grocock was spared from delivering one of his more animated half-time team talks.

The victory secures a solid mid-table finish and rounds off a season that has seen its share of challenges, highlights and memorable cameos. Among the most encouraging aspects has been the development of younger players such as Dom Proudfoot and Tomas Chamberlain, both of whom have grown in confidence and stature and look set to play an increasingly important role in the seasons ahead.