3rd October 2026

It was week three of the 2026/27 season; the October sun (?) was shining wildly, Gregor and George had their new favourite camcorder to catch some cameos, and the W1s were ready and raring following their first win of the season against Wayfarers 2s the week before.

Our opponents, Academicals 1s, were not to be underestimated. Having put three goals away against Teddington the week prior (three more than us), we knew this wouldn’t be an easy game. It also wasn’t hugely reassuring when local (self-proclaimed) legends Phoebe Charnley, Jemma Robson, and Charlotte Kerr greeted half the team, recognising them from their days at Bath University (eek).

We didn’t make the first half easy for ourselves. With many keen words of encouragement from the sidelines and a clear half-time team talk from coaches George and Gregor, we knew we needed to stretch the pitch, connect through our midfield, and take advantage of their defence.

The second half brought some hard work from our midfielders and forwards, some flair play, and a few reminders to mark tighter at the back. Some fantastic link-up play—a pass-and-go lateral from last season's Most Improved Player, Issie Martin, and THD newbie Bella Davies-Roche—was just one highlight. Goals were coming.

A short corner was secured, and skipper Emily McGrath slotted home the first goal of the game. 1–0!

The W1s started to find their groove, and penalty flick connoisseur (and Upper Women’s Club Captain) Annabel Owen calmly scored a penalty flick. 2–0!

Then came the final goal, which was thankfully captured on our trusty camcorder. Although the footage makes it look like the team was playing in the 80s, we promise it was last week.

Some fantastic link-up play around the back, driven with speed from THD newbie Lara Vincent, reached Davies-Roche, who dummied her attacker and fired home a stellar reverse hit. 3–0!

The game wasn’t over yet. There were a couple of close calls in the W1s’ own D, but some incredible work from keeper Charnley, including a beautiful glove save, kept THD firmly in control.

Next week, the team will travel to Surbiton to take on Surbiton Sparks—a tale as old as time.

An exciting game ahead. We can’t wait for the teas.

Final score: THD 3 – 0 Academicals

POTM – Bella Davies-Roche – Reversey goal
DOD – Laura Cashin – For an unblended concealer situation on the district line at 8 am.