Big wins for St Neots Men’s 1s and 2s in crucial weekend fixtures

It was a reduced fixture list this weekend, with just four rearranged games taking place — but there were big results at both ends of the table for St Neots Hockey Club.

The Men’s 1s produced a stunning comeback to secure a vital 3-2 win away at Cambridge South 2s in their fight to avoid relegation.

In what was a must-win clash against fellow strugglers, it was the hosts who struck first midway through the opening half. South then doubled their advantage early in the second period, putting Saints firmly under pressure.

Phil McMorris sparked the comeback with a well-taken goal before firing in the equaliser with just ten minutes remaining to give Saints renewed hope. With time running out, Nick Hipwell found the winner to seal all three points — a huge boost in their battle to stay up.

The Men’s 2s also strengthened their promotion push with a 2-1 home victory over Cambridge South 4s, although it proved tighter than expected.

Saints opened the scoring through Ant Holmes, whose low drag flick from a penalty corner flew into the net. They doubled their lead just before half-time when Owen Edwards’ strike from a short corner was deflected home.

Despite dominating possession, Saints struggled to break down South’s defence in the second half. A late goal from the visitors made for a nervy finish, especially with promotion rivals Bourne Deeping 2s watching from the sidelines — but Saints held on to secure the win.

Those same rivals later showed their strength with a commanding 16-0 victory over the Men’s 3s.

The Women’s 2s were also in action against Cambridge South but were narrowly beaten 3-2. After falling behind, Saints levelled through Abbie Glover. In the second half, Glover grabbed her second — with mum Sue providing the assist — to give Saints the lead.

However, two quick goals from South turned the game around, and despite pushing for an equaliser, Saints were unable to find a way back. The defeat leaves them seventh in the table.