Juan Gris Zavaletta’s last-second penalty seals thrilling victory in Northern India Polo Championship clash
Punjab Newsline,Sports :
Jindal Panther scripted a sensational late comeback to edge past Jaipur Achievers 9–8 in a nail-biting encounter at the Northern India Polo Championship. The match kept fans on the edge of their seats, with momentum swinging both ways before a dramatic finish sealed Panther’s victory.
The contest began on an even note, with both teams locked at 1–1 after the first chukker, courtesy of an equaliser from Naveen Jindal. Panther then gained control in the second chukker, building a 4–2 lead through impressive attacking play led by Siddhant Sharma and Juan Gris Zavaletta.
Jaipur Achievers responded strongly in the third chukker, as Alejo Aramburu spearheaded a comeback to give his side a 5–4 lead. The fourth chukker saw intense action, with Zavaletta leveling the score before Jaipur struck back through Aramburu and Daniel Otamendi to regain control.
Jaipur extended their lead to 8–5 by the end of the fifth chukker, with Sawai Padmanabh Singh adding his name to the scoresheet. At that stage, Panther appeared to be on the brink of defeat.
However, the final chukker turned the game on its head. Ramiro Zavaletta and Juan Zavaletta struck crucial goals to bring Panther level at 8–8. With just seconds remaining, Panther earned a decisive penalty. Juan Gris Zavaletta held his nerve and converted with 29 seconds left, completing a remarkable turnaround.
Zavaletta finished as the star performer with five goals, while Aramburu matched him with five for Jaipur. Reflecting on the win, Naveen Jindal praised his team’s composure and belief under pressure, calling it a “fantastic match” played in great spirit.