Staff footballers defeated by Hospiscare

The friendly match was organised by the University to help raise funds and awareness for Hospiscare, Campus Sevices' partnered charity, and saw staff from each of the organisations go head to head in on the University’s rubber crumb pitch.

A dominant start from the charity side put to the infamous Barbarians on the back foot early on, a clinical approach providing a commanding 5-2 lead going into half-time. A structural re-shuffle and improved performance from the home side saw a more evenly fought second half.  An outstanding performance from the Hospiscare keeper and a lack of fineness from the university saw Hospiscare maintain their led; the full time score Hospiscare 8:4 Barbarians.

Set up in 2005, the University of Exeter Staff Barbarians regularly face local businesses in charity football and cricket matches.

Barbarians’ player / manager Andrew Fry said “The whole focus of the Barbarians is to raise money for Hospiscare and increase awareness of their invaluable work. The University is committed its partnership with Hospiscare and it’s brilliant to be able to strengthen that relationship.

“It was a difficult match, but the game was played in great spirit and we hope to have the opportunity to regain our pride in a rematch soon. The important thing is that match has made some contribution to promoting the work of such an important charity. Hospiscare provides help to hundreds of people that simply is not available elsewhere and we are pleased to be supporting them.”

Hospiscare is a Devon-based charity that provides free support services to the terminally ill and their families, including nursing care, bereavement services and practical advice. The Hospiscare team thoroughly enjoyed the match and not just because they scored a notable victory.   

John Arnold, Corporate Fundraiser for Hospiscare said after the game: “We trust the scoreline won’t damage the excellent relationship between the University and Hospiscare and we look forward to further challenges of a sporting nature in the future.  We would especially like to thank Patrick McCartan, the referee who kindly volunteered his services.  The match raised very welcome funds for a good cause which Hospiscare will ensure directly benefits those in the local community who need its services”.