Sunday 27th August 2023

Triangle Ground, Henley-on-Thames RG9 4HB

Woodley United v. AFC Aldermaston (FA Vase)

With the Reading Music Festival on over Bank Holiday Weekend, Woodley United were unable to play at their regular home.

So lucky for me I get a trip to the beautiful Oxfordshire town of Henley-on-Thames. I'll try not to flood the blog with rowing/water based puns, so apologies in advance if any surface.

Two massive ticks to start. Costa and probably the classiest Wetherspoons you'll ever see. Plenty of posh charity shops to mooch pre-game and a great selection of pubs and cafés if you're planning a session with your crew.

A quick swan towards the river and you're on the most picturesque walk you'll ever have to a football ground, along the banks of the River Thames. Simply oarsome.

After a sunny 20 minute stroll along the riverside path and a quick diversion into the River & Rowing Museum, the Triangle Ground comes into view nestled a couple of hundred yards inland.

The stadium has an interesting undulating grass pitch, one stand (seating around 100) plus a small covered terrace behind one goal. There is a path on two sides , otherwise you can take your chances along the grassy areas behind one goal and next to the dugouts.

Clubhouse is decent for this step of the pyramid, Sky TV,  dartboard and a small patio. Also ,the bonus of being able to watch the game from inside. (Side-note: they have tables like those at junior school that can be formed into a geometric shape of your choice , usually a hexagon)

We have a good gathering of ground hoppers today, ranging from the young guns to the more experienced.

The match itself between two step 6 sides was a lively affair, Woodley took their opportunities and progress into the next round.

Very pleasant to chat with Woodley and Aldermaston officials and followers and to learn the plights and pleasures of your clubs.

Just time to mention a nice moment second half when a dreadlocked Aldermaston central defender had to pop off the pitch to help his young son open a plastic bottle. I can't imagine Nathan Ake having to do that at The Etihad.

A lovely experience, I'd recommend having a trip to Henley - enjoy the many things the town has to offer and get 90 minutes in at Mill Lane - it doesn't come more English than this.

[Final Score: Woodley 3 Atoms 1]