Henley Ladies 3 travelled to league leaders Marlow 5s for a tough away fixture, sitting second in the table against a side who had yet to lose a match all season. With regular coach Brandon unavailable, nerves were high—but Ladies 2s coach Hayley Rogers stepped in seamlessly to guide the squad. Brandon had prepared the team with a more defensive formation than usual, a change that initially felt uncomfortable but quickly proved effective.

Henley held Marlow off brilliantly for the opening 15 minutes, absorbing pressure and staying disciplined. Marlow eventually broke through with a strong strike that snuck past the defence, putting Henley 1–0 down. But the team stuck to the plan. A composed build‑up from the back saw Fi Dunn fire the ball forward to Jo Corbett, who fed Jules Lambert in a perfect position inside the D. Jules struck with power and precision, sending the ball past the keeper to make it 1–1.

The second half was end‑to‑end, with both teams creating chances but both keepers standing firm. Emily Matthews and Maeve Moorcroft were deservedly named Girls of the Game for superb work on the wings, shutting down Marlow’s strongest attacks. In a tense final 15 minutes, Henley dug deep to deny Marlow any chance of a winner.

The final whistle brought huge celebration—a hard‑earned draw against unbeaten opponents, and a result that keeps Henley proudly in second place. It was the team’s best performance of the season, built on determination, discipline, and outstanding teamwork.