By Isle of Wight Observer
IW Men’s 1st XI won 10-2 at home to Wimborne Wayfarers, in South Central Division Two South. There was a player-of-the-match performance by Adam Payne, with Joe Arnold, Alex Breach, Gareth Holmes, Fin Woodford and Kit McChesney also amongst the goal-scorers. There was a dominant midfield display by the Islanders, now in sixth place.
The 2nd XI won 3-1 away at Southampton University, with Tom Young scoring a field goal in the first half and finishing off a penalty corner on the hour. A solid defence line formed by player-of-the-match Seb Foster, Stuart Allen, Steven Holbrook and Toby Noyes alongside some crucial saves from keeper Nate Bower kept the Island in the game. With the Island continuing to create chances, Richard Chistensen came close during a 1 on 1 with the keeper. With 5 minutes remaining, a pin-point pass from Joyce found Stephen Woodford at the back post, where he tucked it away.
Ladies 1st XI drew 1-1 away at Bournemouth in Division Two South. From a tight angle, player-of-the-match Jaimie Payne executed a stunning reverse sweep, slotting the ball past the keeper and put the Island 1-0 ahead. However, keeper Tia Shutler was unable to block Bournemouth’s attack in an end-to-end encounter.
The 2nd XI conceded two early goals at home to Havant IV, with the Islanders having a defiant defence but unable to convert several chances. The visitors’ strength and endurance overcame a youthful and improving Island side, with the final score eventually 6-0 to the visitors.
The U-14 Girls travelled to Petersfield and walked away with a 2-1 win.
This weekend, the Men’s 1st XI travel to Winchester, with the 2nd’s home to Fareham. Fourth-placed Ladies 1st XI are home to Winchester, and the 2nd XI have been given a bye.