There was plenty of excitement in the warm sunshine for the spectators at Awakeri for Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers BOP division one clash with Papamoa on Saturday.
Rangers started off playing some well constructed football, but after ten minutes, the visitors created an opening and scored after a good passing move. The remainder of the first half was evenly fought, with both teams playing some good football. Rangers captain Ben McPherson and left winger Jaiden Ibbetson both went close but at half time Rangers were still a goal down.
Rangers' determination came through after the break. James Krause took on the Papamoa defence with a great run, holding off defenders and drawing the keeper before squaring the ball to his captain. McPherson put the ball in the net, pleasing the home supporters. Jordan Ogilvy put a lovely ball through for McPherson, but that shot went over the top. Aaron Wood, playing his first game for Rangers, sent a volley crashing into the side netting. It wasn't all one way traffic though, with Papamoa putting pressure on the Rangers defence and causing some anxious moments. Late in the game Rangers thought they had a winner. A well weighted 20 metre free kick from McPherson sailed over the keeper, to the joy of the crowd. However the linesman's flag was up for an infringement. With time almost up another Ibbetson shot was saved, but in the final moments McPherson pressured the visiting defence, robbed the keeper with a solid tackle and scored. The final score: Plains Rangers 2, Papamoa 1.
Ben McPherson was deservedly named player of the day for Rangers. Kirk Bain and James Krause were others to shine.
Rangers' men's next game is away to Ngongotaha this Saturday.
On Sunday, Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers women were up against a formidable Old Blues line-up. Rangers started well, holding their shape and made their visitors work hard. Ten minutes in, Old Blues had the lead and despite some heroic saves from Stacey Flintoff in goal, the lead increased through the half. Rangers started the second half well, with several attacks, the Old Blues keeper did very well to parry away a Mishka Barry shot. However, despite the defensive work of Kayla Benner and player of the day Kelly Wilson, Old Blues won the game comfortably. Also impressing for Rangers were Kate Collier, who put her body on the line, and young winger Gillian Green, who gave as good as she got.
This weekend, Rangers women have a bye, which will be welcome for quite a few player who are carrying injuries.