Sam Hoskins, Northampton Town’s modern-day legend, was honoured in style at Sixfields this afternoon as the Cobblers ran out 3–0 winners against a youthful Birmingham City XI in his richly deserved testimonial match.
A total of 2,548 supporters – including 465 travelling Blues fans – turned out to pay tribute to the club stalwart, who was welcomed onto the pitch with a guard of honour formed by players, staff, and officials. The moment was emotional and symbolic, recognising a decade of unwavering service from one of the Cobblers’ most consistent and beloved players.
Before the match could get into full swing, it was Hoskins’ young son who stole the early spotlight, much to the delight of the crowd. The young Hoskins darted across the warm-up cones, gleefully stamping and scattering them, drawing cheers and laughter from all sides of the ground — a perfect light-hearted moment on what was a heartfelt and celebratory occasion.
Once the game kicked off, it wasn’t long before the man of the moment made his presence felt. Hoskins nearly opened the scoring with a driven shot that was well saved by Birmingham goalkeeper James Beadle, but Jack Perkins reacted quickest to tuck away the rebound and give Northampton the lead.
Fittingly, Hoskins got his name on the scoresheet minutes later. The Cobblers’ all-time great finished a well-worked move by calmly slotting home a right-wing cross from Wormleighton, doubling the hosts’ advantage on his special afternoon and sending the crowd into raptures.
The standing ovation that followed when Hoskins was substituted in the second half was nothing short of thunderous. Skipper for the day, he handed over the captain’s armband to Cameron McGeehan before making way for Elliott List, receiving a heartfelt send-off from the adoring Sixfields faithful.
The match ended in a comfortable 3–0 victory for Northampton — a fitting end to pre-season and a perfect celebration of Hoskins’ contributions as the Cobblers gear up for their League One campaign, which begins next weekend away at Wigan.
Supporters were also able to commemorate the day with exclusive testimonial merchandise and a special brochure detailing Hoskins’ incredible career.
Hoskins – By The Numbers:
- Total Appearances: 417
- Total Goals: 97
- League Appearances: 371
- League Goals: 89
- Assists (League): 37
- Minutes Played: ~28,800
- Goals per 90 Minutes: 0.28
- Promotions: 3 (2016, 2020, 2023)
- Player of the Season: 2022–23
- PFA Team of the Year: 2022–23
- Club Rank (Appearances): 3rd All-Time
- Club Rank (Goals): 4th All-Time
Sam Hoskins’ testimonial was more than just a match — it was a celebration of a remarkable ongoing career built on loyalty, hard work, and countless memorable moments. For a player who continues to wear the shirt with pride and passion, the day was a well-earned tribute.
A true Cobblers legend.