Gaston Polo Team won the final of the Trippetts Challenge on Saturday 17th May, winning 13-11 against UAE Polo Team at Cowdray Park Polo Club.
Gaston established dominance early in the match, securing a 3-1 lead in the first chukka and extending it to 6-1 by the end of the second. Their early advantage was built on sharp offensive coordination and effective midfield control, which limited UAE’s ability to generate scoring opportunities.
UAE responded with a more structured approach in the third chukka, adjusting their defensive positioning and improving ball possession. This shift allowed them to reduce the deficit to three goals by halftime (5-8), suggesting a potential momentum shift.
However, Gaston managed the second half with composure and tactical discipline. Despite UAE's attempts to accelerate the pace and apply pressure, Gaston consistently maintained a three- to four-goal lead throughout the fourth and fifth chukkas. Their ability to control the tempo and prevent fast breaks from Sheikha Maitha’s team was critical in sustaining their advantage.
By the start of the sixth and final chukka, Gaston led 13-9. UAE did manage to close the gap slightly, scoring two unanswered goals, but the late surge was insufficient. The deficit built in the early stages proved too substantial to overcome. Gaston’s balanced performance across all phases of play — particularly their early offensive execution and second-half game management — ultimately secured the title for Jean-Paul Luskic’s side.
Chukka Breakdown:
Score Progression:
