Hawke's Bay polo player Simon McDonald boasts the nickname "Crash" for obvious reasons.
The Wanstead A No 1 and two-goaler thrives on the physical side of the game. However, McDonald didn't get too physical when his team opened their Equissage Wilson Cup campaign at the national Savile Cup tournament in Hastings yesterday with a 5-2 win against Auckland B.
The fact the Auckland side included two timid females in No 1 Ellen Morgenstern and No 2 Indi Bennetto was no doubt a reason as it wouldn't have been a good look for the rugged former Porangahau rugby player to be roughing it up with them. McDonald didn't need to as his team, which also included No 2 Lucas Simcox and English professionals Cody Jones and Mark Deacon in the respective three and four roles, were capitalising on fast breaks and cohesive teamwork in front of goal.
It wasn't easy early on for Wanstead A as the score was 1-all after the first chukka and Auckland A led 2-1 after the second. There were a few mistimed set-up hits from McDonald and co during these periods.
"We were using young horses then and they will be better for the experience from now on. Overall we were happy with the win and we're eyeing Sunday's final ... my calendar is free on that day," McDonald said.