Haddenham U15 Girls achieved a landmark first victory in the Oxford League Cup on Saturday, defeating Headington Yellows from the division above in a thrilling penalty shoot out, reports Head Coach Stephen Courtnadge.

HYFC took an early lead after 15 minutes but faced constant pressure from a strong Headington squad of 15 vs Haddenham's 12. Despite an unrelenting attack from the Yellows, HYFC looked to their goalkeeper who put in a heroic performance. Her quick reflexes, fingertip saves, and fearless tackles outside the box earned her Player of the Match.

A second-half own goal brought the score to 1-1 and - after 80 minutes - the game headed to penalties. After five penalties both teams had missed just one each, but when a Headington forward missed #6, one of the Haddenham defenders stepped up to put the ball in the top right hand corner sealing a historic win for the team.

Whilst an early step in this season, the girls have already won more games than last year and this first Cup game victory is testament to their determination, composure and team spirit under immense pressure from a strong team.