CHARITY SHIELD
“The communities will know the primary concerns of parents, girls and boys. Together they can develop networks for support to keep schools safe for children,” Jean Gough UNICEF Country Representative, Nigeria
TOURNAMENT HIGHLIGHTS CHARITY SHIELD (20 GOALS)
Africa’s top polo prize remains the 20-goal Charity Shield, which continues to showcase some of the best international talents. Host team Access Bank Fifth Chukker went into the tournament ardently to win a fourth successive title. In a three-way battle, Keffi Ponys were narrowly outpaced for a play-off place after coming short in two matches, leaving Access Bank Fifth (Dikko Mangal 0, Adamu Atta +3, Manuel Crespo +7, Larin Zubeiro +7) and Lintex Titans to play for the championship. Thousands watched as the two teams took to the field in a thrilling final where Lintex Titans (Khalifa Ibrahim +2, Bashir Bashir Danatata +3, Tom de Bruin +7, Santiago Sarnadas +6) had the early advantage on account of handicap award, and stoutly held on to the lead well into the fifth chukka with some feisty and determined play. Nonetheless, Access Bank Fifth Chukker did eventually catch up to edge ahead. The Titans rallied robustly as the match tapered off but the Access Bank Fifth Chukker foursome were not to be denied, holding on to win it 8-6. Kaduna state deputy Governor Bala Bantex and Access Bank executive director Victor Etuokwu were invited to present the Charity Shield and individual prizes to the two teams. Lintex Titans’ Tom de Bruin received the Most Valuable Player award and a super smart Phone from Samsung’s Kayode Thomas.
12
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9