| Fadhil Yunus |
HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to watch the all-Brunei affair between Brunei 1 and Brunei 2 in the Golden Jubilee Polo Tournament, held in conjunction with the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne, at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club.
Also present were His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.
The all-Brunei clash, both needing a win to keep them in strong position for the grand final, ended in an entertaining 6-6 draw.
It was a result which at least did not harm either team with both returning to action tomorrow.
Led by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah, Brunei 1 were searching for their first win after a pulsating 6-6 draw against the Philippines.
But, Brunei 2, inspired by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Qawi and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar on the saddle, came into the match with a similar purpose after a tie with the Royal Selangor Polo Club on the opening day.
It was Brunei 1 who drew first blood after Lucas converted but Brunei 2 showed keenness in taking the game to them tying up the scores almost immediately after play was resumed.
The impressive Lucas and his horse galloped in full throttle into the 30-yard area to sink a fine effort, highlighting his individual talent and leaving Brunei 2 in trouble.
Brunei 1 built a handsome 4-1 lead and threatened to drift away but Brunei 2 showed character to pull back two goals and ensured that they were right on their alley.
With 16 seconds left, neither team could find the winning goal and both will fancy their chances if they attain favourable results in the final preliminary rounds tomorrow.
Brunei 1 will play Selangor while Brunei 2 will take on Philippines which will determine the teams playing in either for the Golden Jubilee Cup or the 40th Anniversary Trophy on October 12.
Organised by the Royal Brunei Polo Association (RBPA), the tournament will also feature an exhibition game as among the highlights of the final day which attempts to seek a new world record for the oldest cumulative age in a polo team.
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