A goalless draw away to Basingstoke, saw a solid team performance kick off the 26-27 season for Henley women’s 1s. From the first whistle, both teams played with great intensity and tempo, creating plenty of chances in an entertaining end-to-end game.

The first quarter saw limited chances at either end, with play dominating in the middle third. Henley earned the first short corner through Charlotte Hetherington, who poached the ball from Basingstoke in their own half and turned it into an attacking opportunity. Lucy Jean-Jean struck the ball beautifully, but unfortunately it flew just wide of the goal.

Basingstoke had two short corners of their own, but the Henley defence stood firm, with Daisy Ruhle making some excellent saves in goal and the youthful defensive unit of Rachel Townley, Billie Moore, Lucy JJ and Sophie Miller denying any Basingstoke chances.

The second half became truly end-to-end hockey. With strong counter-attacking play, the pace of Henley's forwards and the fitness of the midfield enabled Henley to drive deep into the Basingstoke D. Billie was outstanding defensively, turning the ball over countless times in the Henley half and playing it up the line for the speedy forwards to run onto. With five minutes to go Basingstoke had a counter attack. Lucy JJ produced an incredible goal-line save to keep Henley in the game ensuring the scores remained level.

With the clock winding down, it was Henley who won a short corner. The last play of the game - unfortunately, the Henley girls couldn't find the outcome they needed, and had to settle for a well-earned 0–0 draw.

A fantastic team performance, with plenty of positives to take away — strong defending, excellent work rate and dangerous counter-attacks. A special mention must also go to the newest — and youngest — recruit, Rachel Townley, who produced an incredible debut. Solid in defence, calm in attack and with a secret aerial talent, Rachel was outstanding throughout and thoroughly deserved her Player of the Match performance.