Lintex emerged winners of the President’s Cup at the 2021 Nigeria National Polo Tournament after thrashing Keffi Ponys 9-3.
The final of the high-goal, five-chukka game was a one-sided affair from start to finish.
Bashir Bashir, undoubtedly the most valuable player of the game, banged in a total of five goals, with Abdulmalik Badamasi grabbing a brace of his own.
Isa Kwame and Captain Jamilu Mohammed scored a goal each to complete the rout for Lintex.
“This makes me feel great that all our efforts and training as a team paid off. It was all about teamwork, coordination, and determination.
“We look forward to putting more work in the next edition of the tournament to ensure that we successfully defend our title,” Lintex Captain, Mohammed, said.
Hon. Ahmed Wadada-led Keffi Ponys managed to score three consolation goals through Wadada himself as well as Aliyu Tijjani and Argentine’s Fernando Munaz to cap a miserable night for the Keffi-based side.
In other matches, also played on Sunday, Dokaji Farms walloped Malcomines of Jos 11-1 to lift the Legislative Shield, while Nigerian Army defeated BUA/Nasriya 4-2 to emerge winners of the Unity Cup.
“In the game of polo, the pony does about 80 per cent of the job. So, it’s all about the mounts and players as well.
“The score could have been worse if I had played with my team but I unfortunately sustained some injuries and had to watch my team’s spectacular performance from the sidelines.
“It’s been generally interesting and exciting experience throughout this tournament and I think the Guards Polo Club is gradually taking the lead in the game in Nigeria and indeed Africa.
“The Guards Polo Club is the club to beat anywhere in Nigeria, The patron of Dokaji Farms, Sen. Haliru Dauda-Jika, who doubles as the tournament manager, stressed.
Also, Haske & Williams defeated Sikka Spa by 7-5 and a half goals to win FCT Minister’s Cup, while Wu Bassey Barracks defeated Niger Barracks 5-4 to win the COAS Cup.
ASI edged Alhusuna 6-5 to win the Guards Challenge trophy.
The tournament which galloped off on Nov. 20 came to an end on Sunday at the Guards Polo Club – Nigeria Polo Resort, Asokoro. (NAN)