A unique format played to the visiting team’s advantage at Chestertons Polo in the Park on Friday, 6 June, with 2-point goals proving decisive as Argentina swooped to victory in the feature international match for the Olympic Trophy.
After a cautious start from both sides, it was England’s Milly Hine who opened the card to give England a 1-0 lead, working smoothly with Jack Hyde – playing his fourth game of the day! – and England captain Max Charlton. Argentina trailed until just before half-time, before equalising to enter the third chukka at 1-1. England edged ahead to 2-1, but Argentina, slow to find their rhythm in the first half in an unfamiliar format, bounced back with a trademark 2-pointer to take the lead at 3-2. England responded quickly, but a crucial whistle on the play halted their momentum and dashed the crowd’s hopes as the goal was removed, and Argentina extended their advantage to 4-2.
Following a foul against England, Max Charlton stepped up with confidence. Opting for a defended penalty, he fired the ball past Alfredo Bigatti to level the score at 4-4. With just two minutes remaining, Alfredo Bigatti edged Argentina ahead at 5-4. Moments later, Catalina Lavinia broke through with a dramatic 2-pointer, pushing the visitors to an uncatchable 7-4 lead. Manuel Plaza sealed the win with a final strike in the closing seconds, bringing the score to 8-4.
England sponsors Explora presented each of the winning players with an incredible prize of 8 nights spent between two of their signature luxury locations; adventuring in Atacoma, Chile and Valle Sagrado, Peru. Find out more about Explora here.
The next international fixture for England is the Beaufort International on Saturday 14 June when England will play the USA in two matches for the Golden Jubilee and the Buckmaster Trophy.