Sometimes those banners really blend into the sky/forest/buildings. I've thrown the odd jarid into a friendly horse (which is the one benefit of thrown being nerfed). I advise getting yourself a neon pink banner to ensure it never happens again. I think it would be great if there was a way to show the damage you've shelled out per game, whether to shields, horses or 3/4" thick tin can armour.
Mind you I should also get points for distracting guys while cav charges behind them, or drawing the two handed guy out into the open so the archers can plug him. I realized I'm a pretty crappy one on oner, but found lots of ways to help teammates get the kills.