Sunday 13th July saw more knock out high goal action as the last of 2 exciting quarter finals matches took place at Cowdray Park Polo Club. Two were very different games, matches 3 and 4 of the quarters were exciting and fast paced, the first a showcase of the mighty power of Adolfo Cambiaso, the second a nail biting showdown of 2 well matched, competitive teams.
Match 1:
First up La Dolfina/ Scone dominated newcomers Aureus GV 10-4, taking an early lead and giving Aureus barely a look in on the scoreboard as they steamrolled to the semi finals. Paco de Narvaez was well placed throughout the game, combining perfectly with long standing teammate from the US Adolfo Cambiaso, to create positive play after positive play, leading in possession and scoring opportunities.
While Aureus have had some great games in the run up, they struggled to maintain the momentum against such a strong and established team. With Mia Cambiaso working hard off the ball to clear any threats and neutralise Aureus’ attacking attempts, Hugo Taylor and Paco de Narvaez were free to capitalise on Cambiaso’s signature unselfish play, positioning themselves time and time again for the long passes from downfield, Aureus were unable to stop them and La Dolfina/ Scone take their place as the 3rd semi finalists.
Match 2:
Unlike the first game, this match was thrilling and unpredictable to the end. Neither side were able to make any great leaps, shutting each other down equally and both quick to intercept, turn and switch the play dynamic.
Ferne Park had the advantage a couple of times in the game, but White Crane never let them out of their sights, equalising at every opportunity and scoring an impressive 9 out of 14 of their shots to goal from the field. Polito Pieres scored 8 out of 10 of the White Crane goals, keeping his side firmly on the tail of Ferne Park throughout, but Ferne Park were 100% from the penalty line, while White Crane scored only 1 of their 4 opportunities, and in a match this close, this can be the crucial difference.
When Joaquin Pittaluga scored to take the lead for Ferne Park in the last they no doubt hoped for a speedy whistle, but Polito Pieres laid down his magic to score and equalise, cool under pressure he pushed the game to an extra chukka. It was Joaquin Pittaluga in the 7th who had the last laugh though as he received a pass up from Pelon, took out his man on the right and took the ball through the posts on his nearside to take the win and send his team to the semi finals where they will play winners of the first match La Dolfina/ Scone.
Watch all Gold Cup matches here: https://cowdraypolo.co.uk/cowdray-tv/
Image credit Mark Beaumont
Stats provided by International Polo Academy