Kaduna agog, as 2016 Access Bank-UNICEF Charity Shield Polo Tourney gallops off

Polo enthusiasts in Kaduna and its environs yesterday converged at the Kangimi Resort to witness the beginning of the 2016 Access Bank-UNICEF Charity Shield Polo tournament at the Fifth Chukker Polo and Country Club, Kangimi Resort.

The competition galloped off with BUA defeating Valda 4 to 2 1/2 in the UNICEF Cup, while South African side, SA Poloafrica also produced a sublime display to edge out New Line Farm 6 1/2- 5.

In other games, Titan/STL were also victorious against Susplan 5 to 4½, while Niyya Farms also secured a 6 ½ to 4 win against Aerovote to brighten their chances of clinching the top prize in the15-team UNICEF Cup, which takes the centre stage for the first week of the 10-day event.

Two-goaler, Ali and Abdulrahman Mohammed +3 both spearheaded Team BUA’s triumph in the first match on Ground 3.

To signal the beginning of hostilities, the Emir of Hadeja, Dr. Adamu Abubakar Maje, performed the traditional kick-off for the match between New Line Farm and SA Poloafrica, which had former Governor of Katsina among the spectators. However, it was the visiting team sponsored by the South Africa Tourism Board that was trailing less than a minute into the match as Halifa Elhussaini drove in a low shot.

Further goals by Haba Dawul and Hamisu Buba put the Farmers more comfortable on the driving seat after David Lephatsi struck to put the scores 3 -1 1/2.

The last three chukka saw the best of the South African side with goals by Thabo Mokofeng, Anthony Mothijoa and Taota  Ntoeleng scoring back-to-back to add excitement to a topsy turvy encounter, which eventually ended 6 ½ to 5.