Approximately 4000 spectators watched this Sunday at La Rural in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the final match of the 1st World Championship Pato/Horseball, between Portugal and the host country.
Portugal beat Argentina 8-7 goals after extra time in a thrilling final and are the new title-holders.
Final Results (09.04.06)
1° Portugal
2° Argentina
3° France
4° USA
5° Italy
6° Brazil
7° Germany
8° Spain
9° Great Britain
10° Austria
Best Shooters
1º Luís Matias (Portugal) – 14 goals
2º Rudolfo Caetano (Portugal) – 11
3º Dumas Axel (USA) – 10
3º Alonso Cristian Goce (Brazil) – 10
3º Guillermo Montero (Argentina) – 10
Foreword:
Pato/Horseball is played between two teams of six riders who must pick up a ball from the ground without dismounting, and using a game of attack and defence attempt to score goals at each end of a pitch.
The speed and vigour of the game requires the players to have a complete knowledge and understanding of the rules and to adhere to them strictly at all times.
Above all, it must always be remembered that good sportsmanship is the foundation stone on which the game of horseball is built and that the safety of both horses and riders is paramount.