Match Recap: USA vs. Scotland – Saturday, June 21
A thrilling clash of international rivals took center stage this past Saturday as Team Scotland made a triumphant return to the Newport International Polo Series, edging out Team USA in a dramatic 6-5 victory.
Guests filled the grounds for this much-anticipated match, browsing artisan vendor tents including Cocoa & Co. (offering on-site photo portraits), Newport Fine Linens, Outeast Eyewear, M1C2 Woodworking, Simply Chickie, and the Pro Shop. Fans gathered at the Pavilion and patio bars, where the Drink of the Day, the Orange Palmer, made with Glenmorangie Scotch, iced tea, and lemonade – was the toast of the afternoon.
Food concessions were bustling with summer favorites from Brie & Honey, Newport Chowder Co., La Costa, Wally’s Smash Cart, JavaJai Coffee, Little Fish Tacos, and Ben & Jerry’s.
Before the match began, a warm welcome was extended to 41 North – the Official Lodging sponsor. The ceremonial coin toss was performed by Sarah Macphee, representing the National Trust for Scotland Foundation USA. Performing an orchestral prelude before the opening ceremony, and then both the American and Scottish national anthems, was the Boston Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, setting the tone for a spirited contest.
Team Scotland featured #1 Izzy Baillie, #2 Bertie Alexander, #3 Charlie Cadogan, and #4 Angus Rowan-Hamilton. Team USA lined up with #1 Roger Souto, #2 Chris Fragomeni, #3 Minnie Keating, and #4 Rory Torrey. Umpires Sam Clemens and Caleb Bryden officiated.
Scotland struck early with a goal from Izzy Baillie, followed by a penalty conversion by Angus Rowan-Hamilton. USA’s Rodger Souto answered in the 3rd chukker, then Chris Fragomeni added one to keep the momentum going. Just before halftime, Charlie Cadogan notched a goal, sending Scotland into the break with the edge.
During halftime, fans enjoyed divot stomping, drinks, and shopping at the Pro Shop. After the break, Angus scored again, but Rory Torrey quickly responded with two goals to close the gap. In the 5th, Bertie Alexander added another for Scotland, while Rory struck once more in a final push to tie it up. But Scotland held the lead as time expired, sealing the 6-5 victory.
The 2004 perpetual Liberty Bowl was presented by Cathryn Stein from the Boston Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, bringing a rich cultural tradition to the day’s lineup with selections from the Club’s third album of traditional and contemporary music rooted in the Scottish tradition of Gaelic Cape Breton.
Special thanks to our promotional partners for helping host Team Scotland: Sea Newport Yacht Charters, Island Adventures Electric Bikes, International Tennis Hall of Fame, Newport Vineyards, 12 Meter Charters, Newport Kites, Newport Jaguar Tours, Elizabeth in Newport, and Newport Mansions.
Next Up: Don’t miss the action this Saturday, June 28, when Newport takes on Team Boston, see you there!