DUBAI — Habtoor Polo clinched the Silver Cup, Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2013, after defeating Abu Dhabi 10-9 in overtime here Saturday. It was a thrilling encounter, which kept the crowds on the edge of their seats. With the scores tied at 9-9, Abu Dhabi had the golden opportunity to win the game, but Mohammed Al-Habtoor saved the goal and his team from defeat. In the extra chukka, Ezequiel Martinez made a great move from his own side and scored the goal that handed Habtoor Polo the win and the Silver Cup. Habtoor Polo went in front in the first half. Abu Dhabi made a great comeback in the second to tie the game 3-3. Faris Al-Yabouni's team missed two chances to win the game in the last minute of the fifth chukka. Habtoor Polo kept its cool and clinched the opportunity when it came its way to win the match with a great move made by Martinez, who also picked up the MVP honors of the final and the tournament. Faris Al-Yabouni was named the Best Amateur Player of the Tournament. Ghantoot, which beat Bin Drai 6-2.5, claimed the Subsidiary Final. Six teams participated in the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series: Habtoor Polo; Mahra Polo; Zedan Polo; Bin Drai Polo; Abu Dhabi Polo and Ghantoot Polo. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, the tournament attracted huge crowds. “I am proud to see Dubai playing host to yet another top polo event,” said Mohammed Al-Habtoor, Chairman of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series. “Each year the event reaches new heights. Dubai has quickly gained popularity and found its place on the Polo world stage.” Among the sponsors for this year event were: La Martina, Bentley Emirates, Habtoor Motors, SpeedFit, DiamondLease, Hildon Water.
