A friendly match against AFC Caversham proved good preparation for the Henley Hurricanes U10s ahead of the new season. The game was an evening fixture, played under floodlights on the artificial pitch at Shiplake College. This was a last-minute change of venue, and the teams were grateful to the College for hosting the match at short notice.

The game started at pace, both teams trying to come to terms with the bounce and speed of the surface. The Hurricanes had their chances - an Oscar Robinson’s shot well saved from close range, and Jack Callaway hitting the rebound against the post.

At the other end, Caversham were also creating chances and the Hurricanes were forced to defend during a period of sustained pressure, while goalkeeper Harrison Carpenter Buckett and Will Lindsay on the left worked well to keep them at bay.

The second quarter began with a great passing move between Luca Currie, Jack Callaway and Oscar Robinson, moving the ball from the Hurricanes’ half towards Caversham's goal. However, just as in the first quarter, Caversham rose to the challenge and drove the Hurricanes back towards their own goal. Will Goulden was decisive in defence, clearing the ball powerfully several times, and Will Lindsay persevered doggedly on the left side.

Now it was Caversham’s turn to take control. The Hurricanes were fighting hard in midfield, Shiva Vadhoolan, Oscar Robinson and Jack Callaway battling to keep Caversham out, whilst Will Goulden again made some key interventions in defence.

The third quarter started with Caversham maintaining pressure on the Hurricanes. Goalkeeper Jake Thatcher made an important save to keep the Hurricanes in touch. Will Goulden, now in the striker’s role, was into the attack from the halfway line. Caversham still had the upper hand and the Hurricanes were having to defend hard.

Heavy rain was falling at the start of the final quarter. Caversham forced new goalkeeper Jack Tookey into two great saves, whilst at the other end the Hurricanes still pushed hard, Oscar Robinson shooting narrowly wide. The final whistle blew, signalling the end of a hard-fought battle between two well-matched, competitive teams.