The women’s match between New Zealand and South Africa was neck and neck. Photo: Jesse Wood
Waipā men John-Paul Clarkin and Dean Fullerton shone on home soil as New Zealand beat a Rest of the World team 8-7 at Mystery Creek Polo Club late last month.
Captain Clarkin knocked in a penalty goal in the closing seconds to pip the visitors and claim the Rose Bowl for the first time since 2020 – right in front of his house.
The women’s and men’s trophies up for grabs – the NZ women’s international polo trophy and the NZ Rose Bowl. Photo: Jesse Wood
The Rest of the World side hit their stride in the early chukkas but New Zealand searched relentlessly for victory.
After being pipped by England on the same pitch a year ago, the Kiwi side had a point to prove.
Last year’s England captain Jimbo Fewster led the Barbarian-like side and played well, as did fellow Englishman Will Harper, but it wasn’t to be.
“It was a really nice high-level game. The highest level game that’ll be in the country this year,” Fullerton said.
“It was a strong Rest of the World team and they started really well. We took a couple of chukkas to get going. George Cronin started well for us and scored the first two goals.
“After about the third chukka we got into our rhythm and began to shut them down. John Paul got a lot of control at the back and we started going much better as a team.
Dean Fullerton (maroon) competes with Rest of the World captain Jimbo Fewster. Photo: Jesse Wood
“At the end, we were very lucky to get a penalty and John Paul hit the winning penalty from the 60-yard line.
“We had a really good crowd and it was a super day for it all. It was really nice to be a part of.”
In the earlier match, the New Zealand women were beaten 3-1 by South Africa in a close encounter.
New Zealand player, and well-known musician, Greta van den Brink said it was a tough game.
“The South African girls were strong and great to play against.”
John-Paul Clarkin winds up for a big shot. Photo: Jesse Wood
Dean Fullerton was one of the two Mystery Creek Polo Club members representing New Zealand on home soil. Photo: Jesse Wood
John-Paul hit the winning shot in for New Zealand. Photo: Jesse Wood
Fern McIldowie speaks at the post-match ceremony. Photo: Jesse Wood
The Chiefs were playing at the same time in Mt Maunganui, but a great crowd supported the polo. Photo: Jesse Wood
