Oakwood returned to Bushy Park for the second time in as many weeks, but before the game began, football rightly took a back seat. Both teams and supporters came together to pay their respects to Bridie O’Reilly, who sadly passed away last week. For nine courageous years, Bridie fought with remarkable strength against a rare condition called Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome. A perfectly observed minute’s silence set the tone for a day that was about far more than football.

When the action did get underway, it was Oakwood who controlled much of the possession, creating a number of half chances but struggling to find the finishing touch. Harry Morley and Leo Newton were bright throughout, linking up well in attack, while Jake Merryweather, operating in a deeper role, dictated play and helped drive the team forward.

With a late withdrawal forcing a reshuffle, Daniel Ritchie stepped up from centre-back to take on goalkeeping duties — a challenge he met with composure and leadership, helping to organise the defence and start attacks from the back.

Teddington, to their credit, defended resolutely, sitting in two compact banks of four and making it difficult for Oakwood to break through. The sides went into the break level at 0–0, with Oakwood searching for the breakthrough their dominance deserved.

The second half continued in a similar fashion. Oakwood pushed forward with intent, as Lukas and Hamza looked to unlock the defence, but most of their efforts came from outside the area. Deep into the half, Niko Joseph was pulled down inside the box — the Oakwood players and supporters waited for the referee’s whistle, but no penalty was awarded.

As the game entered its closing moments, Teddington launched a rare counterattack that could have stolen the win, but stand-in keeper Ritchie produced a superb save with his feet to preserve the clean sheet.

The final whistle blew with the scoreline 0–0 — a result that may not have reflected Oakwood’s effort or possession, but on this day, the game itself was secondary. The togetherness and respect shown by everyone highlighted the true spirit of the Oakwood Football Family.

Rest in Peace, Bridie

OAKWOOD FC

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