First Weekend Wins of 2026
It was a busy and eagerly anticipated return to action for Wisbech Town Hockey Club as all ten teams were back on the pitch on Saturday, marking the first full weekend of competitive hockey after the break. Across the club there were wins, draws and hard-fought defeats
The Men’s 1s travelled to St Ives and produced a first-half performance full of energy and attacking intent. Wisbech started brightly, moving the ball well and putting the home side under sustained pressure as the half progressed. Goals from Jonny Garner, who struck twice, along with Dom Stannard and Kieran Hallatt, gave Wisbech a deserved 4–2 lead at the break. However, the second half told a very different story. St Ives gradually clawed their way back into the contest, levelling the scores as Wisbech’s intensity dropped. Despite a series of excellent saves from goalkeeper Rob McGregor, who was named Player of the Match, the pressure eventually told and St Ives completed the comeback with two late goals to secure a 6–4 victory.
At home, the Ladies 1s made a strong return with a 4–2 win over Spalding, showing clear intent from the opening whistle. Wisbech took an early lead when Lilian Ley reacted sharply after Becky Gillick intercepted the ball, finishing calmly. Spalding responded to equalise before half time, but the second half belonged largely to Wisbech. Becky restored the lead after her effort took a crucial deflection from a short corner, and captain Izzy Pope extended the advantage with a composed flick. Although Spalding pulled a goal back, Wisbech sealed the result when Becky struck again with a well-taken reverse shot. Izzy Pope was deservedly named Player of the Match for her outstanding leadership, work rate and composure.
The Men’s 2s enjoyed an excellent start to the second half of the season with an emphatic 6–1 home win over local rivals Peterborough, a side that had beaten them earlier in the campaign. A strong blend of experience and youthful energy proved decisive, with excellent communication and effective use of the wide channels throughout the match. Special mention went to debutant Harry Shippey and Dom Garfoot for their contributions, while Sam Booty was awarded Man of the Match after a standout performance in a team full of strong displays.
Men’s 2s
The Ladies 2s faced Spalding 2s at home and, despite sitting higher in the league, found themselves tested after the Christmas break. A lack of early cohesion allowed Spalding to score first, but Wisbech responded calmly as Laura Dudley continued her fine form with a well-taken equaliser. Wisbech then moved ahead through a slick team move finished confidently by Lily Cooper, only for Spalding to level again before half time. A rousing team talk sparked a much-improved second-half performance, with disciplined defending and greater composure. The winning goal came from Jane Peggs, who was named Player of the Match, unleashing a powerful strike from a short corner to secure a hard-earned 3–2 win.
Ladies 2s
The Men’s 3s also enjoyed success, edging a tense encounter against Peterborough 7s by 2–1. Wisbech were well organised from the outset and took the lead through a well-worked short corner finished by Lee Punter. After several near misses, Wisbech led 1–0 at the break, but Peterborough equalised in the second half following sustained pressure. With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Wisbech earned a late short corner at the final whistle, and Punter held his nerve to score his second of the game and seal a dramatic victory, earning Man of the Match honours.
Men’s 3s
The Ladies 3s returned to action at home against Long Sutton and produced a strong all-round performance in a 2–1 win. After a slow start, Wisbech grew into the game and dominated possession, creating numerous chances. Against the run of play, Long Sutton scored first, but Wisbech responded superbly as Fiona H-P converted two short corners in quick succession just before half time. The second half was controlled by Wisbech, who continued to create opportunities but were unable to add to their tally. A solid and encouraging return to competitive hockey nonetheless.
The Men’s 4s faced a tough test against top-of-the-league Peterborough and were beaten 6–0 despite a committed performance. Defenders Thomas and George worked tirelessly, while Harry led by example and earned Man of the Match as Wisbech battled to contain a strong opposition. Jon Boyall, Mark Littlechild and Tyler Eggleton fought hard in midfield, but Peterborough’s quality ultimately proved decisive.
The Ladies 4s produced one of the standout results of the day, earning a deserved 1–1 draw against unbeaten league leaders Oundle 1s. After withstanding early pressure, Wisbech grew into the game and responded well after conceding. Annabelle McGregor converted a short corner in the second half to equalise, and Wisbech finished strongly, showing resilience, teamwork and belief to claim an excellent point.
Ladies 4s
The Men’s 5s travelled to Kettering with just eight players but showed tremendous spirit in a narrow 1–0 defeat. Kettering supported the fixture by lending players, allowing the match to go ahead in great spirit. Wisbech’s youngsters impressed, supported by a strong performance from Howard Hewitson Townley, who was named Player of the Match.
The Ladies 5s were also away at Kettering and battled hard in a 4–0 defeat. A strong opening spell saw Wisbech spend long periods in the opposition half, with Sian Spear and Charlotte Holt creating good opportunities. Despite several chances, Wisbech were unable to convert, but there were plenty of positives, with Sian awarded Player of the Match for her tireless midfield performance.
All teams are back in action next weekend, with five matches taking place at Harecroft Road. Supporters are encouraged to come down and cheer on the club as the season continues.