It was another action-packed weekend for Island Hockey Club, with all teams showing determination, teamwork, and some outstanding individual performances both home and away.
Island Ladies vs Haslemere
The Island Ladies faced Haslemere at a blustery Smallbrook, battling through tough conditions in what proved to be a closely fought contest. Despite strong link-up play in midfield, the home side couldn’t find the net in the first half, which ended 0–0. Haslemere struck twice after the break, but a superb solo effort from Nikki Lloyd pulled one back. Despite late pressure, the Island couldn’t quite find the equaliser.
Scorer: Nikki Lloyd | Wightlink Player of the Match: – Nikki Lloyd
Men’s 1st XI vs Trojans
The unbeaten Men’s First Team travelled to Trojans with only 12 players for one of their toughest fixtures of the season. After a goalless and scrappy first half, the hosts took the lead early in the second. The Islanders hit back through Alex Breach, before clinching victory in dramatic style when Adam Payne fired home from a short corner with the last touch of the match. The 2–1 win keeps their unbeaten streak alive.
Scorers: Alex Breach, Adam Payne | Wightlink Players of the Match: Adam Payne & Arran Wood
Ladies 2nd XI vs Hamble
The Ladies 2s made an early trip to Hamble with just ten players but started strongly when Alice tapped in from close range inside the opening minutes. She doubled the lead soon after following excellent midfield play, but Hamble pulled one back just before half-time. The hosts levelled late on, only for the Islanders to snatch a dramatic winner – Alice completing her hat-trick after linking perfectly with Martha and Flora down the right. A 3–2 win and a performance full of heart and teamwork.
Scorer: Alice (3) | Wightlink Player of the Match: Alice
Men’s 2nd XI vs Southampton 3rd XI
The Men’s 2XI welcomed Southampton to Smallbrook for a thrilling, end-to-end game. Goals from Thomas Young and Steven Holbrook gave the Island a 2–1 lead at half-time. Kensei Parker, Rupert King, and captain Carl Joyce added second-half strikes, with King’s thunderous shot from the top of the D the pick of the bunch. Southampton battled to stay in touch, but the Islanders held firm for a deserved 5–3 victory.
Scorers: Young, Holbrook, Parker, King, Joyce | Wightlink Player of the Match: Rupert King
