Wonderful Wiseman nets debut hat-trick

HENLEY 1sts continued their strong pre-season preparations with a 2-1 win against WINCHESTER in their second friendly fixture of the campaign last Saturday.

The hosts opened the scoring in the first half through Sam Heaver, who reacted quickest to a loose ball following a short corner routine.

Henley doubled their advantage after the break thanks to Chris Green, who was on hand to turn in a poacher’s finish from close range.

Winchester pulled one back late in the second half, capitalising on a rare lapse in Henley’s defence, but the hosts held firm to see out the result.

HENLEY LADIES 1sts started their pre-season with a 5-1 away win against MAIDENHEAD LADIES, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting season following last year’s promotion.

Henley quickly found their rhythm, delivering some good passages of play, sharp interplay and slick passing.

The match marked Henley debuts for Lucy Wiseman and Anjana Sothynathan, both of whom made an immediate impact.

Wiseman announced herself in sensational fashion, scoring a hat-trick of stunning reverse stick goals. Also on the score sheet were Emma Joseph, who slotted a penalty corner home, and Charlotte Hetherington, with her reverse finish.

Billie Moore, back from university, made a welcome return back into the side.

HENLEY LADIES 3rds ran out 2-0 winners in their away pre-season clash at MAIDENHEAD LADIES.

Henley showed good cohesion and determination, with strong defensive work at the back keeping Maidenhead at bay throughout. It was this strong base that allowed the midfield and wings to push forward.

Standout moments came courtesy of a new dynamic mother-daughter duo Jo Corbett and Lizzie Briscoe, who each found the back of the net to seal the win. The past two matches have also marked the debut of four new players — Jo Corbett, Lizzie Briscoe, Hannah Sullivan-Parish and Hayley Robertson. Their contributions were felt across the pitch, with impressive drives down both wings and solid link-up play.

Leading the team this season is new captain Charlotte Irving, whose leadership and calm presence helped steer the side to victory.

HENLEY 5ths went down to a 10-1 defeat against a youthful SOUTH BERKS that play two divisions higher.

Despite the scoreline, Henley played well against the far stronger team while creating a number of opportunities in the South Berks D. Goalkeeper Thomas Ear saved far more than he let in while Chris Ward who performed well in right half in his first full match.