US Open Polo Championship Player Ratings: Zacara 7 – Lechuza 6
In an aggressively contested game that will remain long in the minds of polo lovers, Zacara defeated Lechuza in their match of the United States Open Polo Championship being held at the International Polo Club in Wellington. Amazingly, the two teams have
moved forward into the quarter-final round of the championships.
Zacara opened the game at a fast pace but could not maintain their momentum and slowed down in the second half. It was one of the lowest scoring competitions of the tournament where only thirteen goals were scored from the two sides in the six chukkas.
No doubt, it was a game that demonstrated some quality polo played by the two teams. Lechuza could not maintain its unbeaten record in the 26-goal handicap tournament and lost to Zacara in the last stage of the group clashes.
A look at the standout performances from the two sides is as follows.
Zacara
Carlitos Gracida: 7.0/10
He is the pillar of Zacara with an athletic attacking style and aggressive play, as he was the real architect of the win. Gracida obtained only three goals, as the defensemen of Lechuza were very hard on defence. He made lengthy rides and showed impressive
stick-work throughout the game. Gracida is at his best in the first half action but could not maintain his momentum in the second.
Facundo Pieres: 6.0/10
He was a bit unconventional at times with his strategies, but continued his fast game throughout the six frames. He was more impressive on defence than the offence and denied numerous efforts from Lechuza. Thanks to his two goals that made the victory possible
and improved his ratings.
Sebastian Merlos: 5.0/10
He struggled hard to keep a lid on the opponent’s attackers in the game and consequently he did not get forward much in order to keep his position safe. Merlos became less effective on defence in the second half and almost gifted points. He also scored a
goal in the game through a classic penalty conversion.
Mariano Aguerre: 5.0/10
He seemed confused and dazed at times in the full-back position and could not coordinate positively with his team-mates. Aguerre made plenty of runs throughout the field, but without the ball. His solitary goal helped in securing the victory.
Lechuza
Sapo Caset: 6.5/10
After trailing points in the first half of play, Caset grew into the game and gained more confidence in the second half action. He cranked up his offence in the play and led the scoring three times in the game. Caset struggled to continue his winning momentum
until the final horn sounded.
Gaston Lisioli: 6.0/10
Lisioli played a fast and aggressive game under intense pressure, but he was stranded by Zacara’s attackers. He created many chances for the front man, but to no avail. The basic reason behind their defeat was the stiff defence of Zacara. Lisioli added two
goals in the loss.
Juan Martin Nero: 5.0/10
Except for one goal, Nero did not create much of an impact in the game. He was less effective on defence and failed to assist his team-mates.
Victor Vargas: 4.5/10
It was truly a disappointing day for Vargas who remained without the ball for most of the game. He was fine with the ball handling, but could not meet the speed of the attackers.
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