In the first match on the newly laid Jubilee Park turf, Henley Ladies 2s produced a spirited and determined performance to earn a well-deserved point against Marlow 3s in a fiercely contested and competitive fixture. Facing a Marlow side recently relegated from the league above, Henley showed no signs of intimidation and matched their opponents throughout in what proved to be a high-tempo, end-to-end battle.

Henley started brightly, having the first push back and immediately putting pressure on the Marlow defence. Their early dominance paid off within the opening six minutes when Lily Baker capitalised on a ball into the D, calmly slotting it past the Marlow goalkeeper to give Henley a deserved lead.

Maintaining the momentum, Henley spent the next 15 minutes largely camped in Marlow's half. A slick passing move found Hayley Munt at the top of the D, who unleashed a shot only to be denied by a strong save from the Marlow keeper.

However, Marlow began to find their rhythm and responded with increasing pressure resulting in some uncharacteristic lapses in Henley's defence which allowed Marlow to claw their way back into the game. A well-taken goal levelled the score, followed by two quick strikes before half-time which left Henley trailing 3-1 at the break.

Not disheartened, Henley came out in the second half with renewed energy and focus. The home side created several chances, with the Marlow keeper again called into action. The pressure eventually paid off when the ball broke loose near the goal line, and Munt reacted quickest to scoop it into the net, narrowing the deficit.

As the match wore on, both sides pushed for more goals, with Henley's defence working hard to get back and some great saves made by keeper, Georgie Grocock, creating an exciting and open contest. Henley continued to threaten in Marlow's final third, winning a couple of short corners. One such effort saw Munt again strike from the top of the D, beating the keeper only to be saved on the line by a Marlow defender. Lily Baker however, was perfectly placed to follow up and smash home the rebound, bringing the score to 3-3.

Despite chances at both ends in the final minutes, neither side could find a winner. Henley can take great pride in their comeback and team performance, showing resilience, creativity, and fight against strong opposition. A valuable point earned and plenty of positives to take into the next match after the half term break.