CHITRAL - Chitral won the Shandur polo festival for the third consecutive year, beating Gilgit by 9-7 in the final played on Wednesday at the highest polo ground of the world.

Gilgit ran over the Chitral goalpost during the first five minutes and scored five goals, sustaining the pressure throughout the first half. Raja Zulfiqar and Ghulam Abbas of Gilgit proved especially challenging for the Chitralis.

However, instead of losing their nerve, Chitral changed its strategy and interchanged its forward and attack line players. By half time, Chitral managed to score three goals.

In the second half, Chitral scored four goals to Gilgit's two and the score remained levelled 7-7 during the stipulated 50 minutes. The teams were given extra 10 minutes to decide the match.

During the extra time, Chitral scored two goals, winning the match 9-7. Chitral's Shahzad Ahmed played a decisive role in the victory of his team by scoring four goals.

The Chitral team was captained by Shahzada Sikandar, and players included. Azam Khan, Shahzad Ahmed, Raza Khan, Shahbaz and Israr Wali. The Gilgit team was comprised of captain Ashraf Gul, who was supported by players Bakhtek, Gulab Khan, Fazal, Raja Zulfizar and Ghulam Abbas.

NWFP Chief Minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti gave away prizes to the players.

While speaking to reporters, the CM said that the Shandur festival would be celebrated in a befitting manner next year because it had become a national festival due to its importance.