Kicking off semifinal action in the C.V. Whitney Cup at the National Polo Center- Wellington (NPC), Valiente (Bob Jornayvaz, Mariano ‘Peke’ Gonzalez, Lucas ‘Luckitas’ Criado Jr., sub. Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola) and Park Place (Andrey Borodin, Juan Britos, Hilario Ulloa, Jason Wates) locked in a thrilling end-to-end contest that was ultimately determined in the final moments of regulation.
Last claiming the C.V. Whitney Cup title in 2018 and making their debut in the Gauntlet of Polo, Valiente faced their first challenge on their mission to the podium in a last-minute substitution of 9-goaler Castagnola for their captain Adolfo Cambiaso. Awarding Valiente one goal on handicap, Park Place made quick work of their opponents’ roster realignment with offensive contributions from Wates and Ulloa. Donning the captain’s armband Gonzalez earned his first of five goals of the day, as Castagnola stepped-up from the penalty line. Finding success in the field throughout the first half, six combined goals between Wates and Britos gave Park Place a 7-4 lead at the half. Igniting Valiente’s second half comeback, Gonzalez led from the field, as Castagnola continued to convert with one last penalty goal sealing Valiente’s 12-10 victory.
Upcoming Schedule:
Thursday, February 16
C.V. Whitney Cup Semifinals
Pilot (2-0) vs Shack Attack (2-0) at 10:00am ET
Photo Credit: David Lominska