The IOM U18 Girls travelled to Sedbergh for a busy weekend of hockey, with four competitive games providing plenty of opportunities for the squad to test themselves against strong opposition.
Game 1 – IOM U18 Girls 1–1 Sedbergh School
The girls got their weekend off to a bright start against the hosts, with Alicia opening the scoring early after finding a way through the Sedbergh defence and finishing through the goalkeeper’s legs. It was an evenly matched game, with both sides creating opportunities and playing some good hockey. The IOM girls worked hard throughout and probably felt unlucky not to come away with all three points, having created enough chances to win the game.
A positive start to the weekend and plenty to build on.
Game 2 – IOM U18 Girls 1–2 Carlisle
The second game saw the girls take on Carlisle in another closely fought contest.
The IOM took the lead after a fantastic run from May-Saa, who carried the ball forward and created the opportunity for Alicia to finish and score her second goal of the day.
At the other end, Ellie was kept busy in goal, making multiple excellent saves to keep the IOM girls in the game and protect their lead. Carlisle eventually found an equaliser midway through the match, before scoring a late winner to take the game 2–1.
Despite the result, it was another encouraging performance, with the girls showing good attacking intent, defending strongly and working hard right until the final whistle.
Game 3 – IOM U18 Girls 2–0 Ulverston
The team produced a really strong performance against Ulverston and deservedly came away with their first win of the weekend. The opening goal came from Ela, who finished well from a short corner to give the IOM the lead. The second goal was a fantastic piece of hockey. Ela produced a defence-splitting pass straight through the middle of the pitch, finding Alicia, who kept her composure to finish and complete her hat-trick for the day.
A confident and controlled performance saw the girls secure an excellent 2–0 victory.
Game 4 – IOM U18 Girls 0–7 Liverpool Sefton
The final game was always going to be a huge challenge against a very experienced and well-drilled Liverpool Sefton ladies’ side.
Sefton showed their quality throughout the game, moving the ball quickly and making it difficult for the IOM to settle into their usual rhythm. Despite the scoreline, the girls continued to work hard and never stopped competing.
The 7–0 result was a tough way to finish the weekend, but facing such experienced opposition will provide the squad with valuable lessons and plenty to take away from the trip.
The IOM Player of the Tournament was awarded to Summer, for her tireless work throughout every match, her positive attitude both on and off the pitch, and her ability to create attacking opportunities for the team.
Four games, one win, one draw and two defeats, with plenty of positives for the squad to take home. Most importantly, the trip gave the girls valuable experience playing against different styles and levels of opposition. A great weekend of hockey, plenty of learning, and lots for the girls to build on going forward into the 2026/27 England Hockey Knockout Competition.
Thank you to IOM Squad Coaches for their report.
