SONNING 3 - 1 HENLEY
27th October 2007

We set off from the Uni car park, wondering what we might be facing. Henley had beaten the league leaders in the previous week, allowing us to move into top spot, so would Henley prove to be our hardest opponents to date? We had strength in depth though and, given our form so far, we were confident we'd get the right result.

Early attacks on both goals and the midfield skirmishes indicated it would indeed be a tough game and we took time to settle into our rhythm. Although we missed several opportunities to score - the ball often whizzing just behind the forwards in the D - we were nevertheless creating good chances through great movement down the wings. Antony Matheson and Dave Latimer in particular were dominant.

It was a move down the right, and involving Jordan Manning, that led to our first goal - Jon Warbey being in the right place at the right time to knock the cross in. So that was it then, we were on our way, but Henley thought differently and, despite some resolute defending, we got caught out right on half time.

1-1 and not what we'd hoped for. We'd played good hockey though, so the half time team talk from John Flint and Diggers just reminded everyone to focus on our movement, make use of the wings and to keep sticks down in the D ready for that ball fizzing in.

As it happened, it was a driving run and a fizzing shot from the edge of the D by Dave Latimer - Coach Steve King would be so proud - that put us back on track. More stout defending and quick link up play with the midfield led to several breakaways towards the end and finally proved decisive. The return of Diggers had been very welcome, his experience and movement up front keeping the Henley defence on their toes, and it was he who grabbed the 3rd goal.

All the colts played their part again and the ability to change personnel and try them in different positions is proving useful at this early stage of the season. Particular mention goes to Joe Saunders who fitted neatly into the left back slot and played well throughout the whole 70 minutes.

So we remain unbeaten and top of the tree - roll on Windsor next week!
 

Man of the Match: Dave Latimer
Special thanks to Elaine Rimmer for flying solo on the umpiring duties as Henley couldn't provide anyone.