By Isle of Wight Observer
The strength of Island hockey continues to grow, with the weekend seeing 3 wins from 3 matches, and young talent benefitting from experienced players, and a committed coaching set-up.
With travel across the solent affecting matches, the Men’s 1st XI won 4-2 away at Basingstoke. Highlights included field goals from Adam Payne and Antonio Ferreira. Adam Payne got the third from a penalty corner, and the win ensured the Islanders remain top of Division Two South.
The Men’s second XI won 4-0 at home to New Forest II, with first-half strikes from Thomas Young and Barry Lloyd. After the break, field goals from Carl Joyce and Barry Lloyd guaranteed the points and fourth place in Division Six South for the Island side.
IW Women’s 1st XI won 2-1 away at Southampton, after going a goal down. With a goal-line clearance from Claire Caddick, Evie Fairhurst weaved her way through the Southampton defence and calmly slotted home the equaliser. Shots from Saffron Hart were deflected on target by Emily Lord but hit the post, and Sophie Parkhouse reacted first to convert a rebound for 2-1. A later penalty from Evie Fairhurst was saved by the keeper, with an inspired performance from player-of-the-match Elsie Jenkinson helping to secure the points.