The outcome between the two Dolfinas was never in question. Cría La Dolfina, a younger version of the original team, remains closely connected to its “parent” team in both strategy and style. So, the idea of a victory for Cavanagh, Taranco, and their teammates over Cambiaso, Stirling, and Nero seemed more like a distant dream than a possibility. As expected by most seasoned fans, the main team, with its years of experience and finely tuned skill, commanded the match and sealed a definitive victory with a score of 20-10.
This result was largely anticipated by the more knowledgeable polo enthusiasts who understand the nuances of the sport, and the superiority of La Dolfina’s main squad was never in doubt. Yet, the broader crowd, many of whom packed the Palermo stands for the third day in a row, taking advantage of the free entry, was less focused on the technical details. For them, the game was simply an impressive spectacle.
Among these spectators, some were taken aback by the sight of two teams with nearly identical names on the field, wondering if this mirrored match-up held deeper meaning. However, the majority of the crowd simply embraced the thrill of the action, drawn in by the high-speed movement of the horses, the fearless play of the riders, the skillful handling of the ball, and the relentless back-and-forth of the game. For these fans, the experience was immersive and exhilarating, the kind of day at the polo field that sparks a true appreciation for the sport. They cheered, marveled at the intensity of play, and perhaps learned to look for specific plays, if only for a fleeting moment, as they witnessed a match of pure passion and technique. The excitement lasted until intermittent showers began to roll in, sending a gentle reminder that nature could not always be outmaneuvered; eventually, the crowd began to thin as the rain made its presence felt.
In the end, La Dolfina’s dominant victory over Cría La Dolfina (with Santiago Toccalino, rated -7-, stepping in for Bautista Bayugar -8-, who unfortunately suffered a blow to the tailbone during a practice the day before) concluded the fourth round of the 131st Argentine Open. With each passing match, the team from Cañuelas continues to assert itself as a strong contender, edging closer to a possible final on December 7. Yesterday’s victory propels La Dolfina to the top of Group B, setting them up to face formidable rivals in the coming weeks. Ellerstina, who soundly defeated La Zeta Kazak in their match on Saturday, and La Ensenada, who had a rest day this weekend, are the next key hurdles on La Dolfina’s path toward the ultimate title.
The match between the two Dolfinas, though intense, had a feel of a well-rehearsed practice, a calculated display of the skills and tactics that set La Dolfina’s main team apart. This dynamic led to a game that, while competitive, left little room for in-depth analysis—La Dolfina’s primary squad was clearly in control, moving through the chukkers with a confidence that suggested they were one step ahead at every turn. Every member played their part with precision, contributing to the collective success of the team, but it was Juanma Nero and Poroto Cambiaso who stole the spotlight as the game’s top scorers, each putting away an impressive six goals. Reflecting on the match, Nero, the team’s experienced back, shared his thoughts: “Today, I found myself pushing further up the field, which gave me the chance to put a few more points on the board,” he said with a smile. “The team’s rhythm was solid, and the horses were right there with us. It’s always a joy to be back on Field 1. The energy here is something special.”
Poroto Cambiaso, the young forward who dons the number 3 jersey and has quickly become a favorite among fans, was equally enthusiastic about the team’s performance. “This has to be one of the few matches where we really hit our stride this season,” he said, looking visibly pleased with their effort. “I loved the intensity we brought, especially when the scoreboard was in our favor. There was no let-up in our play; we pushed ourselves until the very end.” His words captured the team’s spirit, one of continuous drive and dedication, determined to maintain momentum through every chukker and all the way to the final.
For fans, the experience was unforgettable, a testament to the enduring skill and allure of La Dolfina’s premier team as they inch ever closer to another possible title in the grand stage of the Campeonato Argentino de Polo.
Summary
La Dolfina (20):
- Adolfo Cambiaso Jr., 10
- David Stirling Jr., 10
- Adolfo Cambiaso Jr. (son), 10 (two penalties)
- Juan Martín Nero, 10
- Total: 40
Cría La Dolfina (10):
- Rufino Bensadón, 8
- Diego Cavanagh, 8
- Alejo Taranco, 8
- Santiago Toccalino, 7
- Total: 31
Score Progression:
La Dolfina: 3-0, 5-1, 8-3, 9-4, 11-7, 14-9, 17-10, and 20-10.
Goal Scorers for La Dolfina:
- A. Cambiaso Jr., 4 (one corner)
- Stirling Jr., 4
- A. Cambiaso (son), 6 (three penalties)
- Nero, 6
Goal Scorers for Cría La Dolfina:
- Bensadón, 5 (one penalty)
- Cavanagh, 4 (two penalties)
- Toccalino, 1
Judges: Matías Baibiene and Guillermo Villanueva Jr.
Referee: Gonzalo López Vargas
Field: Palermo Field 1