Match Reports – Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup for the British Open Polo Championship 15th July
By Katie Vickery, Editor Fantasy Polo
La Indiana 12 vs 15 Sommelier
The first surprise of the weekend came in the form of a Sommelier win over La Indiana in the first of the quarter final matches. Last year’s finalists La Indiana were one man down, their top goal scorer ‘Tincho’ Merlos out with an injury to be replaced by big brother Pite Merlos, a disadvantage that Sommelier pressed home.
Dominating straight from the off, Sommelier came out all guns blazing and put pressure on La Indiana throughout the entire game. Sommelier won 21 of the 31 throw ins and their high possession led to 12 field goals (six from Juan Gris Zavaleta) in an exciting high-scoring match which saw 27 goals overall. La Indiana were forced into playing catch up throughout, but as a two goal lead turned in to a four goal lead after half time Sommelier were virtually home and dry and celebrated as the first of the four semi finalists on a 15-12 victory.
Match Progression:
3-1 6-4 9-7 11-7 13-10 15-12
El Remanso 12 vs 9 Monterosso
El Remanso had the Monterosso side beaten from early on in the game, taking their place in the semi finals opposite Sommelier, a match which will feature the Hanbury brothers on opposing sides. Strong defense from the El Remanso line up gave Monterosso little opportunity at the goal and those opportunities they did have they were unable to convert – scoring only 6 out of 13 shots on goal. The solid teamwork of the El Remanso quartet also allowed them to freely attack the Monterosso goal, with quick runs resulting in goals. Ollie Cudmore lead the scoring from the field with four impressive goals. A good last chukka from Monterosso saw them come back from a six goal deficit, but it was too late and they remained three goals down at 12-9 as the final whistle blew.
Match Progression:
3-1 6-3 8-4 10-5 12-6 12-9
