Beginning with an impressive 21 teams vying for one of the most prestigious titles, the 15-goal Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Windsor Cup has been whittled down to just eight teams for the knock-out stages on Wednesday, July 7.
Four Quarters vs Sujan Indian Tigers
The first quarterfinal features Four Quarters (3-0) against Sujan Indian Tigers (3-1) in a much-anticipated start to a day of four matches. Sujan Indian Tigers are led by tournament assist leader Juan Gris Zavaleta, who has collected nine assists while also adding 14 goals to lead his team’s attack. Converting 80% of their penalties, Sujan Indian Tigers have taken advantage of their opportunities, a key component they will need to maintain against an undefeated Four Quarters team. Led by a trio of Gonzalo Ferrari, Jose Araya and Benjamin Urquiza, Four Quarters have gained momentum by claiming five and six-goal victories in their last two matches. The trio have all produced nine or 10 goals in the tournament thus far, leaving opposing defenses with a difficult time in stopping the three-pronged attack that has led them into the quarterfinals.
Emlor Red vs White Crane
Winning their three games by an average margin of 3.7 goals, Emlor Red (3-0) have been a team to watch in the tournament, playing a fast-paced attack that has seen contributions from all four players. Max Charlton leads the way with 10 goals, while the team has effectively used the pass to assist on 11 of their 20 field goals. Conceding just 4.7 goals per game, Emlor Red’s defense has been crucial in their unbeaten run through the tournament. After a tough one-goal loss in their opening game to Four Quarters, White Crane (2-1) refocused to capture two important victories to reach the quarterfinals. James Harper has led the team on both ends of the field, producing 11 goals on 50% shooting from the field and 83% penalty shooting. Along with the contributions of Andrew Blake-Thomas, White Crane will need to continue their accurate offensive attack against the organized Emlor Red defense.
Bardon Polo Team vs Ferne Park
Falling just in behind Emlor Red, Bardon Polo Team (3-0) booked their spot in the quarterfinals with an impressive defense that allowed just five goals per game. Although Bardon Polo Team have shot just 35% from the field, they have generated plenty of scoring opportunities with an impressive 16 shot attempts per game, led by the play of Poroto Cambiaso and Kian Hall. Controlling possession and limiting counterattacks from their opponents, Bardon Polo Team have displayed a well-balanced team effort that make them contenders for the title. Ferne Park (3-0) will pose a serious threat to Bardon Polo Team with an offense that is led by experienced 7-goaler Joaquin Pittaluga. Providing consistent offense from both the field and penalty line, Pittaluga is joined by the strong play of young Louis Hine, who ranks second on the team with eight goals on 50% shooting. An entertaining match between two unbeaten teams will prove to be a must-watch as they fight for position in the semifinals.
Ainsley Saddlery vs Black Bears
The only team holding four victories, Black Bears (4-0) emerged as the top team out of League Five with a line-up displaying immense chemistry from multiple competitions together. Oliver Cudmore and Patrick O’Dwyer have created a formidable duo, combining for 26 goals and 13 assists to highlight an electric Black Bears attack that averages 9.5 goals per game. On the other side is Ainsley Saddlery (2-1), who bounced back from an opening loss to Emlor Red by capturing two decisive victories over Tchogan and BP Polo. Manuel Plaza has been a standout player for Ainsley Saddlery, producing the most shots of any player in the tournament, while ranking third in goals with 15. A determined team that gains possession and attacks quickly, the match-up against Black Bears is sure to be a fast-paced offensive game to conclude the quarterfinals at Guards Polo Club.