8th. European Play Offs, Sotogrande - Spain Part I

England and Spain on the way to the World Cup

On Sunday, Spain and England advanced to the Polo World Cup, due in 2008. In spite of losing to England 9-6, Spain got their goal, as Italy couldn't get enough margin to qualify, even though they beat France 8-3 1/2. The average goal received by Spain was key, as after the Italians' victory, Spain couldn't lose by more than four goals.

Italy and France played the first game of the day. Italy, led by their brilliant duo, Juan Ambroggio and Martin Espain, made all the efforts, knowing they needed a wide victory to maintain the chances to qualify. Italy dominated from start to end, winning 8-3 1/2.

More than 2,000 people attended the second game between Spain and England, each cheering their countries. England led the score during the whole match, led by Tom Morley's great offensive play, and very well accompained by George Meyrick, who played one of his best games. Spain had Ignacio Domecq and Mario Gomez as outstanding players. Following a 4-4 tie in the second chukka, the English team went all the way in the next chukka, which they won 4-0, and got the fourth 8-4. The game was decided in the fifth chukka, with goals by Mario Gomez and Tom Morley. England won the Play Off, and obtained a place for the World Cup.

Attending the award ceremony were FIP President, Mr. Patrick Guerrand Hermes; FIP Vice President and Play Offs Director, Mr. Farouk Younes; San Roque Councils Juan Carlos Galindo and Juan Jose Guillen; and Santa Maria Polo Club Director, Luis Estrada.

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• polo
• 8th.
• European
• Play
• Offs
• Sotogrande
• Spain
• fip
• 2007