“I played this tournament because of the trophy,” Maria Lampropulos sighed, looking at the silver spade in her hand with pride.
Lampropulos had her eyes set on victory and claimed it decisively, winning her first women’s event at Poker Stars’ UK & Ireland Poker Tour (UKIPT) in Nottingham.
Her heads-up duel against Cheryl Barrows was a strategic masterclass, showcasing Lampropulos’ calm, calculated approach. The Argentine star read her opponent with precision, managed her stack expertly, and revealed her cards only when it mattered most- when she won.
The final hand, a full house, delivered the climatic blow after 43 rounds of relentless mind games. Reflecting on the intense battle, Lampropulos remarked, “It was swinging.”
Barrows proved a formidable opponent, adopting an aggressive strategy that tested Lampropulos at every turn.
“I was sure she was strong,” Lampropulos admitted, recalling a pivotal hand where Barrows raised the bet by 4x. Lampropulos held her ground, confident in her position and hand. Her calculated play ultimately forced Barrows to fold a strong Ace-King, a testament to Lampropulos’ nerves of steel.
Hoping to start a winning streak, Lampropulos is set to continue her dominance at Poker Stars’ women’s events. “After here, I am going to the (PokerStars) Women’s Event,” she said, alluding to the upcoming Winter Festival in London, where she plans to keep her momentum going.
