On a beautiful sunny day, Henley Women’s 3s travelled to Reading with a full squad of 16 players, knowing they were facing a side in a similar position in the league. The game began at a high tempo on an exceptionally bouncy pitch, with newcomer Lily Ganchi impressing on her debut in centre midfield. She linked play well, producing several excellent passes forward to Jo Corbett and Rosie Wilkinson. Henley created promising opportunities, but the Reading goalkeeper was in outstanding form, denying every effort on target.

Reading gradually built momentum and applied sustained pressure throughout the first half. Their persistence paid off when a well-worked passing move resulted in a powerful strike that beat both the Henley defence and goalkeeper, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead at the break.

Henley battled hard to contain a relentless Reading attack after half-time, defending resolutely despite wave after wave of pressure. Reading eventually extended their advantage from a short corner, converting clinically to make it 2-0. The hosts continued to threaten, but goalkeeper Jasmine Hillyard produced a series of superb saves, including an incredible diving goal-line stop that prevented the ball from crossing. It was a performance that earned her unanimous Girl of the Game honours.

Henley finished strongly and created chances in the final 10 minutes, but were unable to find a breakthrough. Onwards and upwards!