On a landmark day for Henley Hockey Club—celebrating its 75th anniversary and marking the official opening of the brand-new pitch—the Ladies 2s stepped out to an expectant and enthusiastic home crowd. Excitement and nerves blended in equal measure as the team prepared to showcase their trademark fast, attacking style on a very special occasion.

Henley opened the match with real intent. The midfield, driven by the ever-energetic Ellie Boyle, controlled much of the early tempo, while Sophy Rogers delivered her characteristic terrier-like graft, linking defence to forward line with determination. Henley carved out multiple attacking opportunities, building promising momentum.

Against the run of play, however, Witney struck first. A quick break caught Henley on the back foot, giving the visitors an early lead. Rather than deflate Henley, the goal spurred them on. The home side responded quickly with some excellent interplay between midfield and forwards, moving the ball with purpose and precision. Their efforts earned a short corner, and from a well-worked routine, Emma Buckham-Hedges produced a deft deflection to bring the score level before halftime.

The second half saw Witney disrupt much of Henley’s rhythm. Despite this, the defensive partnership held firm: Maisie Robinson and Alyx Clarke put in a solid performance at the back, and goalkeeper Georgie Grocock produced several crucial saves to keep the scoreline locked.

Eventually, Witney won a short corner of their own and converted with a clean, powerful strike to regain the lead. Henley pushed hard in the closing stages—helped by the attacking flair of Sophie Miller, who worked tirelessly throughout—but despite creating chances, they couldn’t find the equaliser.

Final score: Henley Ladies 2s 1–2 Witney Ladies 1s. A frustrating result on a historic day, but a performance full of fight, quality, and promise. The Ladies 2s will take plenty of positives into next week’s fixture against Staines as they look to bounce back strongly.