Back again at the familiar ground of Oxford Hawks Hockey Club, St Edward’s Oxford face Headington Rye School in what promises to be another exciting local derby under the Friday night lights. Both sides will be eager to claim early bragging rights in this showcase fixture.
By Mia Sherazee
The two teams last met eight months ago, on the 1st of February, when St Edward’s secured a 3–1 victory, edging out their rivals by just two goals. With a summer break and several player changes since then, it will be interesting to see how both teams have evolved ahead of Friday’s clash.
Like last year’s clash, the game will be broadcast LIVE here on NextGenLive, with the match available both on the NextGenLive YouTube Channel and through the embedded video below.
St Edward’s Women’s 1st XI, fresh off a strong 2024 season that saw them win both the indoor and outdoor county championships, will look to carry that momentum into this match. Despite a challenging but competitive start to the current season — marked by several tight draws following an extensive pre-season programme — they’ll be keen to turn those performances into results tonight.
Headington Rye, meanwhile, are expected to field a talented and well-drilled side. They are no strangers to the hockey performance pathway, with many of their players representing National League clubs, England junior squads, Talent Academies, and university 1st XI teams. After a few narrow defeats last year, and under the continued guidance of Mr. Monk, now in his second season in charge, Headington will undoubtedly come into this fixture ready to compete fiercely.
With this being an early-season match, both teams will be looking to make a statement and build confidence for the months ahead. Expect a fast-paced and competitive game full of hunger, determination, and the desire to set the tone for the season to come.
St Edward’s Oxford v Headington Rye: 7pm Start | NextGenLive
