Ellerstina left Palermo with a clearer horizon after securing a crucial victory. With a final score of 18-13, they defeated La Ensenada, a direct rival in the fierce battle for a spot in the grand final on December 7. This rivalry also includes La Dolfina and the Dolfinas, who, despite the mathematical possibilities and surprises of this unpredictable season, remain in contention. In this context of uncertainty and fierce competition, Ellerstina’s triumph was celebrated with enthusiasm, as it allowed them to catch up with La Dolfina at the top of the zone standings, both accumulating 4 points. However, while this position is promising, it is not definitive, and the players are well aware that the job is far from finished.
Guillermo “Sapo” Caset, a key figure in the attack, was quick to acknowledge this: “It’s not over yet. We have to win the remaining matches against the Dolfinas, and for that, we need to improve in many areas.” Despite his self-criticism, he expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly his precision in penalties, where he once again played a decisive role.
Ellerstina’s greatest achievement in this match was their ability to withstand and overcome adversity. During the first three chukkers, the team faced a literal and figurative storm, trailing 8-5 in a challenging game. Yet, despite the blows and disjointed play, they kept their composure and stayed on course. “In tough moments, when we couldn’t find our marks and things weren’t going our way, we didn’t panic,” explained Gonzalito Pieres, who smiled with relief after the comeback. “We showed attitude and managed to turn the match around. That gives me peace of mind,” he added. The number three also expressed his satisfaction with the dynamic of the team in this new phase. “It’s a great team. I’m having a lot of fun, and I really enjoy playing with this group,” he concluded.
Ellerstina built their victory on collective effort, determination, and key individual performances. While the team still shows gaps in coordination and fluidity, they made up for it with commitment, grit, and character. Individual brilliance proved decisive: Gonzalito Pieres delivered crucial goals, Sapo Caset was lethal in penalties, Lucas “Lukín” Monteverde demonstrated youthful energy and rebelliousness, and Nachi Du Plessis contributed experience and skill at critical moments. These elements were enough to justify the team’s smiles after the game, but they also leave open questions about whether this level will suffice to overcome the Dolfinas, the organization’s ultimate challenge in their pursuit of glory.
Highlights of the Match
La Ensenada entered the match with an urgent need to win. Their equation was simple: a victory would keep their dreams of reaching the final alive, while a loss would virtually eliminate them, even from a potential semifinal. Unfortunately for the Cañuelas-based team, they failed to capitalize on their opportunity. Despite having standout talent, La Ensenada once again fell short, as has been the case in previous Triple Crown editions. In today’s polo, particularly in this highly competitive 2024 season, relying on a name or handicap alone is no longer enough; matches are decided by small details and consistency in critical moments.
Match Summary
La Ensenada 13 vs. Ellerstina 18
La Ensenada:
• Juan Britos (h.) – 9
• Alfredo Bigatti – 9
• Juan Martín Zubía – 9
• Jerónimo del Carril – 9
Total: 36
Ellerstina:
• Guillermo Caset (h.) – 9
• Lucas Monteverde (n.) – 8
• Gonzalo Pieres – 9
• Ignatius Du Plessis – 9
Total: 35
Score Progression:
Ellerstina: 2-2, 3-7, 5-8, 7-9, 8-10, 12-10, 14-12, and 18-13.
Top Scorers:
• La Ensenada: Britos (h.) 2, Bigatti 3, Zubía 1, Del Carril 6 (4 penalties), 1 penalty goal.
• Ellerstina: Caset (h.) 11 (8 penalties), Monteverde (n.) 2, Pieres 4, 1 penalty goal.
Incidents:
• Bigatti (LE) was cautioned in the eighth chukker.
Umpires: Guillermo Villanueva (h.) and Martín Pascual.
Referee: Martín Aguerre.
While La Ensenada showed flashes of individual brilliance, they failed to find cohesion as a team. On the other hand, Ellerstina’s solid performance in decisive moments keeps them alive in the battle for the coveted final. The challenge now is to maintain consistency and overcome the formidable obstacle presented by the Dolfinas.