By Isle of Wight Observer
Island’s Men’s 1st XI came from a goal behind, twice, to win an end-to-end home encounter with table-topping Winchester 3-2, with 2 goals from Aaron O’Hanlon-Hoare. The visitors were leading 2-1 from the 15th minute, but the Islanders levelled after 42 minutes from a penalty corner. Extra effort and endeavour saw Reuben Smallwood-Butler score the winner, and secure the points in the 68th minute.
Fortress Smallbrook also saw the 2nd XI winning 6-3 at home to Southampton University, in Solent One. Coming back from 2-0 behind, a team goal finished by Rupert King gave the Island momentum. This was followed by 2 goals apiece from Carl Joyce and Jonny Kirby to give the Islanders the lead. Thomas Young’s strike sealing the victory, with Nathan Phillips named player-of-the-match. ‘Experienced’ Tim Clapp was playing his first match in 20+ years, after dusting off his wooden hockey stick.
The IW Women’s 2nd XI won a close contest 2-1 away at Winchester, in Division Two South. There were second-half goals from skipper, Katy Ednay, and Polly Rider, with a dramatic last minute save from keeper and joint player-of-the-match, Tia Shutler, who shared the accolade with Lizzie Dodd. The Islanders secured 3 points and are now just a point behind second-placed Romsey.
This weekend, the 1st XI, now level 4th in Division Two South, travel to Basingstoke, with the 4th-placed 2nd XI away at Fareham. The Women’s 1st XI host Romsey at 1pm, with the 2nd XI away at Gosport Borough.