Hedgerley FC faced off against Datchet FC Reserves at the Datchet Recreation Ground on 27 October 2024, with kick-off at 10:30 am. The match concluded with a resounding victory for Hedgerley, who dominated the game with a staggering scoreline of 9-0, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive solidity throughout the encounter.
Hedgerley FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Chris Randall occupied the goalkeeping position, shielded by a back four consisting of Jack Butler and Bradley Oxbrow as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Charlie Parkin and Jack Wright forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Alex Mitchell and Adam Butler operated as central midfielders, tasked with controlling the tempo and linking play. Ahead of them, Lewis Scott and Lewis Linley occupied the right and left attacking midfield roles, while Oliver Cottrill played centrally, supporting the lone striker, Conor Henry.
The substitutes for Hedgerley included Liam Neale, Tyrese Weekes, John Lobo, and Rory Scott, providing depth and options for tactical adjustments as the match progressed.
The scoring opened early in the match when Conor Henry found the back of the net in the 8th minute, assisted by Adam Butler. This early goal set the tone for the rest of the match, as Hedgerley quickly established their dominance. Just 12 minutes later, Henry struck again, this time with an assist from Oliver Cottrill, doubling the lead to 2-0.
As the first half continued, Hedgerley maintained control, and by the 30th minute, they made their first substitutions, bringing on Liam Neale and Tyrese Weekes for Lewis Scott and Lewis Linley, respectively. The half concluded with Hedgerley firmly in command, leading 2-0.
The second half commenced with Hedgerley continuing their relentless assault. Just two minutes in, Conor Henry completed his hat-trick, scoring in the 47th minute with an assist from Alex Mitchell, pushing the score to 3-0. The attacking momentum did not wane, and in the 55th minute, Oliver Cottrill added his name to the scoresheet, further extending the lead.
In the 61st minute, Conor Henry struck again, scoring his fourth goal of the match, assisted by Liam Neale, making it 5-0. The substitutions began to pay dividends as Tyrese Weekes scored in the 66th minute, with another assist from Alex Mitchell, bringing the score to 6-0. Shortly after, Conor Henry was substituted off for Lewis Linley, who returned to the pitch.
As the match progressed, Adam Butler got in on the act, scoring Hedgerley’s seventh goal in the 70th minute, assisted by Charlie Parkin. The substitutions continued, with Lewis Scott coming on for Adam Butler shortly after.
Jack Butler then joined the scoring spree, netting two goals in quick succession. His first came in the 76th minute, assisted by Lewis Linley, and he followed it up with another goal in the 85th minute, this time with an assist from Rory Scott, bringing the final score to an emphatic 9-0.
Hedgerley FC's performance was nothing short of spectacular, demonstrating their attacking flair and defensive organisation, while Datchet FC Reserves struggled to cope with the relentless pressure. The match will be remembered as a showcase of Hedgerley’s capabilities as they continue their campaign in the league.