| Fadhil Yunus |
BRUNEI Darussalam polo team underlined their intent of winning His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s 72nd Birthday Polo Tournament after cruising to an emphatic 10-4.5 win over Pakistan at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong yesterday.
The hosts were extremely unlucky to brush against the post in the early proceedings but Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah opened the floodgates with the first goal of the game.
Brunei were awarded a 30-yard penalty and not long after Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar doubled their tally while Pakistan were given half a point.
The speedy Gaston Urturi was an instrumental figure with his all-around game and his team’s third goal characterised his attacking prowess as he seamlessly rolled the ball into goal.
Pakistan’s Daffadar Raheem pulled one back for his team at the start of the second chukka but His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen swiftly responded to restore a three-goal cushion.
Photos show His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen, Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar and other players in action during the polo matches
With three of the members starting during the recent win against the Pakistan Army polo team, Brunei raced to a 7-1.5 lead through another goal from Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah and a double from Gaston.
Raheem scored another goal before Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar extended his side’s commanding lead at the final moments of the third chukka.
Gaston hoisted the ball onto a good angle as Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah finished off the move while Raheem completed his hat-trick and slotted one final goal late towards the fourth chukka.
Meanwhile, Singapore edged Malaysia 6- 5.5 in the opening match of the tournament.
The competition continues with Brunei taking on Malaysia while Philippines will take on the field for the first time against Singapore.