Reading Women Secure Decisive Victory Over Oxford City
Reading Women’s team continued their winning streak with a solid 4-1 victory over Oxford City in their recent away game. This win marks their third consecutive league victory, a feat not seen since their impressive run in the 2021/22 season.
The match saw Tia Johnson score two goals and Tyra Wilson, a half-time substitute, also contributed two goals. Oxford City managed to score once, with Billie Bough-French finding the net, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Reading’s strong performance.
The game began with Oxford City showing promise with a lively attack. Reading’s defense, led by Sarah Thompson, had to act quickly to block shots from Oxford’s top scorers, Ellie White and Yasmin Edwards. Early in the game, Reading was forced to make a substitution due to an injury to Bethan Poole. Ellie Manners took her place, leading to some adjustments in Reading’s defensive lineup.
As Reading worked to settle into the game, Oxford City continued to apply pressure, with Edwards nearly scoring. However, Reading soon found their rhythm. After a foul on Keren Banduka, Reading’s Jazz King took a free-kick that was headed over the bar by Keziah Banduka.
As the first half progressed, Oxford City had a goal disallowed due to an offside call. Shortly after, Tia Johnson scored the first goal for Reading, breaking the deadlock. Johnson then scored again just before halftime, giving Reading a comfortable 2-0 lead.
At halftime, Reading made a strategic substitution, bringing in Tyra Wilson for Keren Banduka. Oxford City started the second half with renewed energy, winning corners and taking shots at the goal. However, it was Reading who struck next.
Oxford City managed to pull one back with a goal from Bough-French. However, Reading’s Wilson responded quickly with a stunning long-range goal, restoring Reading’s two-goal lead.
As the match neared its end, with rain falling and floodlights illuminating the field, Reading continued to control the game. Wilson scored her second goal in added time, securing a 4-1 victory for Reading.
The final score reflected Reading’s strong performance across the field. The defense stood firm, the midfield controlled the flow of the game, and the forwards were clinical in front of goal.
With this win and other results in the league, Reading Women have moved up to third place, tied on points with Winchester City Flyers and Beaconsfield Town. The team now faces a series of away games, including a League Cup quarter-final against Larkspur Rovers.
Other notable results in the league include Beaconsfield Town drawing 2-2 against Winchester City Flyers, and Wycombe Wanderers defeating Sholing 6-0.
The current league standings are:
1. Wycombe Wanderers: 31 points
2. Winchester City Flyers: 22 points
3. Reading: 22 points
4. Beaconsfield Town: 22 points
5. Southampton Women: 20 points
6. AFC Porchester: 17 points
