Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers got off to the best possible start in their BOP division one campaign on Saturday. Rangers traveled to play Old Blues in the season opener hoping to build on their useful pre-season form.
The home team settled straight away and had Rangers under the cosh for the first fifteen minutes, forcing a succession of corners. However, a quick break out by left winger Ben McPherson stretched the Old Blues defence and his low cross was finished off in superb fashion by debutant right wing Cameron Wills. Rangers then gained an even share of the ball and were always dangerous. Captain Christian Wetting further energized his team with a pile driver from 20 metres that the Old Blues keeper could not keep out. The home team fought back though and scored to keep the game on an even keel. The short Waipuna Park pitch had Rangers trying to use their speedy wingers, but it also meant that clearing kicks could launch attacks readily. Jono Whitaker used this to advantage, sending McPherson on his bike and he put away the one-on-one chance expertly to have Rangers 3 - 1 up at half time.
The second half was a fairly even contest with both teams creating chances and competing well. Referee Steve Miller did a good job in keeping the game flowing. Late in the game Rangers sealed their win. Substitute Brandon Collier fed the ball across to McPherson who turned well and hammered the ball home. The final score: Old Blues 1, Plains Rangers 4.
Coach Aaron Muggeridge was pleased with the Rangers effort. He named Barrie Hawkes player of the day for his work in the midfield, with Cameron Wills also highly rated. There were also decent debuts from Jeff Krause and Adam Mayor. This Saturday Rangers are home at Awakeri to Otumoetai, who had a huge 8 - 0 win against Taupo in their first game. It should be an entertaining game, with kick off at 2.30pm.