Conditions were challenging on a tight and muddy pitch, making it difficult for either team to play flowing football. Ashridge remained disciplined and well organised throughout, ensuring Henley had to work hard for every opportunity.

The visitors opened the scoring after eight minutes. Max Gilligan reacted quickest when the ball broke loose inside the Ashridge penalty area and produced a powerful finish to give Henley the lead.

The Hotshots continued to press, with Bailey Lloyd sending a shot narrowly wide before Sam Bentley struck the post with another good opportunity.

Ashridge defended resolutely and prevented Henley from adding to their advantage before half-time.

The home side continued to maintain a compact defensive shape after the interval, looking to create opportunities on the counterattack. Henley remained patient and eventually found the important second goal.

Picking up possession deep inside the Henley half, Max Gilligan spotted Sam Bentley’s forward run and delivered an excellent through ball. Sam controlled it with his first touch before calmly slotting his finish home.

Henley thought they had added a third following some excellent work from William Lamacraft down the right, but William Soles was unfortunate to be flagged offside before finishing the move.

William Lamacraft was named Henley’s Player of the Day following an outstanding midfield performance. His energy, determination and anticipation allowed him to win numerous loose balls, while his tireless running helped Henley at both ends of the pitch.

Ashridge deserve credit for their organised and committed performance in difficult conditions. Henley, however, demonstrated patience, discipline and quality to secure another victory and a well-earned clean sheet.

The result extends the Hotshots’ impressive winning sequence to seven matches across league and cup competitions.

Full-time: Ashridge Park FC 0 –2 AFC Henley Hotshots
East Berks Football Alliance Div 1

AFC Henley Hotshots squad: Riley O’Brien, Owen Ashton, Samuel Bentley, Danny Gibbon, Max Gilligan, William Lamacraft, Bailey Lloyd, William Massey, Freddie Postlethwaite and William Soles.