Women’s 1st team secure promotion in this week’s hockey

IW's U-14 Girls Tier 3 League Winning Squad (contributed)

Women’s 1st XI narrowly lost 3-2 at home to league leaders Andover to finish the season second. A first half strike from joint player-of-the-match Saffron Hart saw the team trailing 3-1 at the break. The second half was a remarkable turnaround, with Tia Shutler strong in goal, Emily Lord leading the defence, and tireless midfield play from Georgia Whittle and Jaimie Payne, the Isle of Wight fought back. Evie Fairhurst’s stunning late goal showcased the team’s resilience, and with results in the Islanders’ favour, they secured promotion back to Division One.

The 2nd XI ladies lost 6-0 away at Basingstoke, to finish bottom and face relegation.

Mike Dodd’s final match as captain saw IW Men’s 1st XI win 5-3 away at Trojans in Central Two, to finish the season third.

Coming back from a goal behind, Adam Payne levelled from a penalty corner, followed a brilliantly worked midfield move that then saw player-of-the-match Cian Smallwood-Butler net his first goal for the 1st XI and 2-1 lead at the break. Trojans equalised, and Joe Arnold restored the lead, with Adam Payne making it 4-2 and keeper Steph Boyd making a point blank stop. Payne completed his hat-trick to seal the victory.

The 2nd XI conceded their away fixture at Trojans.

The IW U-16 Girls wrapped up their season with a truly emphatic performance, securing a commanding 8-0 victory over Basingstoke. From the first whistle, their passing, movement, and teamwork were exceptional, making them a joy to watch.

The U-14 Girl’s side celebrated winning their Tier Three league, with Kit McChesney, Elsie Jenkinson, Rafaella Jones, and Oscar Pursar recognised at the recent IW Sports Awards.

This weekend, 4th-placed Men’s 2nd XI travel to United Services Portsmouth in Solent One.