Horrendous Conditions

In horrendous conditions, with freezing temperatures and driving rain, the Island side produced a gritty and determined performance—backed by fantastic support on the sidelines.

Despite not starting as the brighter side, the Island team struck first in the eighth minute, very much against the run of play. A driving run from Caddick carried the ball up the pitch before she slipped it to Lloyd, who dribbled past several defenders and squared the ball to Hart. Hart found Ednay who led the play to the baseline and laid it back to Fairhurst. Her cross towards the back post picked out Parkhouse, who calmly deflected the ball into the net.

The Island side pressed again straight from the restart and quickly won possession back. Excellent midfield play from Rider and Lloyd released Caddick on the right. She threaded a pass down the line to Rider, who weaved her way into the D. Her shot was saved, but Fairhurst reacted quickest and pounced on the rebound—2–0 within the first 10 minutes.

Havant responded with sustained attacking pressure, but strong defensive work from Lord, Devenish, Pocock,  Payne and Caddick, along with solid goalkeeping from Blue, kept the Island side in control for much of the half. Havant eventually managed to claw one back, reducing the deficit before the break.

The Island’s third goal came from another piece of dynamic attacking play. Fairhurst drove forward on the right, finding Ednay, who made a leading run to the baseline before cutting into the D and squaring the ball to Rider. Her shot was smothered, but the loose ball spilled towards the P-spot, where Lawrence swept it home.
Havant came out strongly after half-time and were rewarded with their second goal, bringing the score to 3–2. The Island team had further chances to extend their lead but couldn’t quite find the net again.

In the final 10 minutes, battling both the conditions and relentless Havant pressure, the Island defence held firm to protect their narrow lead. When the final whistle finally sounded, it was a relief well earned.

Wightlink Player of the Match: Polly Rider