Report: Mens 1st XI vs Sheffield University Bankers 4th XI – September 27, 2025

Horncastle Men’s 1s — battling the odds, the sand, and the hangovers.

The Men’s 1s hit the road for their first away trip of the season, destination: Junction 600 Audi, a pitch more suited to a beach volleyball tournament than a hockey match. A delayed start (thanks to Ed polishing his driving skills) didn’t stop the bare 11 from arriving on time. Tom was back in action this week — slightly hungover, slightly tired, and with a backstory involving Ethan’s mum that really shouldn’t be in print.

Reece was quick to secure the day’s most memorable comment (featuring Bonnie Blue, and that’s all we’ll say), before Horncastle did what Horncastle does best: concede first. Carty even got involved by supplying the assist — proving we really are generous guests.

Thankfully, Ed and Ethan’s graft down the wings began to stretch the Bankers, and Tom bundled in an equaliser with all the grace of a man surviving on fumes and regret.

Half-time talk was cut short and the main point from Captain Dave: “Yes, the pitch is slow and tricky — now actually play hockey.” The second half brought more chaos than control, but Max stepped up with a thunderous reverse hit that put Horncastle 2–1 up and briefly silenced the sandpit.

Stuart’s competitive streak boiled over, earning him a five-minute self-imposed exile at centre-forward, while Ben committed a “tactical” foul — in hindsight probably unnecessary — earning a two-minute rest and a few shocked glances.

With the game almost sealed, Sheffield stole a late equaliser after a defensive mix-up, aided by Tom’s ongoing battle with sobriety and a bad back. Final whistle: 2–2.

With no subs and a squad of just 11, Horncastle matched a much fitter side player for player and came away with a point that felt well earned. Although we really should’ve taken the 3. Plenty of positives, plenty of character, and a clear sign this team is only just getting started.

MOM: Carty (Many mentions for Max, however as he didn’t stay impossible to say)
DOD: Tom