Abu Dhabi Wins And Goes Through To The Semifinals
Faris Al Yabouni’s team defeated Ghantoot by 6 goals to 5 in overtime
Abu Dhabi got it´s second straight win and goes through to the semifinals of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup.
Faris Al Yabouni´s team defeated Ghantoot by 6 goals to 5 in overtime in a match full of action and suspense.
Ghantoot had a perfect start, scoring three goals in a row and leading the games action. Far from being discouraged, Abu Dhabi made a quick recovery to tie the game in the second chukka.
Although Ghantoot led during the third and most of the fourth chukka, Abu Dhabi players never gave up and battled hard to stay in the match.
A great goal from Juan Storni, in the final seconds of the last period, took the game to overtime.
In extra time, Ghantoot had two good chances to win the game but didn´t capitalized. Abu Dhabi took advantage of a 60 yard penalty, scored by Storni, to win the match.
The Gold Cup continues tomorrow with two exciting matches. At 2.30 Bin Drai will face Mahra and at 4 pm Habtoor Polo play against Zedan, both matches will be held at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club.
Six teams are taking part of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series: Habtoor Polo; Mahra Polo; Zedan Polo; Bin Drai Polo; Abu Dhabi Polo and Ghantoot Polo.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, the tournament has grown in tandem with the city of Dubai.
With its exciting mix of top-class sportsmanship and glamour, it has earned a reputation as one of the most prestigious events on the international polo calendar. It’s also one of the most important annual tournaments in the region and always attracts a high profile crowd. This year it looks set to be more popular than ever and some of the most respected names from the world of polo have confirmed their participation.
As always the Dubai Polo Gold Cup series promises the very best in sportsmanship, entertainment of the highest level and an atmosphere unlike any other polo event.
“I am proud to see Dubai playing host to yet another top polo event,” said Mohammed Al Habtoor, the Chairman of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series during the presentation of the tournament last sunday 27th January. “Each year the event reaches new heights. Dubai has quickly gained popularity and found its place on the Polo world stage. In 2012 the Dubai Gold Cup Series was recognised by the World Polo Tour (WPT). We have been privileged to attract some big names to the event year after year. Of course it is lovely to see many familiar faces (players, officials and spectators), but it is also great to see new faces on and off the field. This year we have upped the stakes by increasing the handicap from 15 to 16 goals. This means the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (Dubai Open) is now the highest handicapped tournament in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. A great achievement! Last year I was fortunate to lead my team to victory.”
Emirate: Dubai
Date: Feb 28, 2013
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