On Saturday Plains Rangers men travelled the short distance to play Whakatane Town B in BOP division two. The weather was perfect and a good crowd watched proceedings as the juniors' Bay Day tournament was concluding on adjacent fields.
The home team started the better and had more territorial possession. However, Rangers held their defensive shape well and were patient. Whakatane forced several corners but found Rangers' keeper Christian Wetting in commanding form between the sticks. After half an hour, Rangers had weathered the storm and a great team move saw them take the lead. Player of the day Jacob Heath started with the ball at left back. He fed the midfield and the ball ended up with the dynamic Jaiden Ibbetson. Ibbetson took off down the left wing beating several attempted tackles and then pulled the ball across goal, where Ben McPherson slammed it into the net. The game then evened up and there was a good battle for the spectators to enjoy.
Rangers took their lead into the break and then opened the second half strongly. Ibbetson curled a good shot but it bounced away off the woodwork. Rangers retained their formation well as Whakatane tried desperately for an equaliser. Tiemen Corporaal did a fine job in the defensive midfield in keeping the pressure on. It was Rangers though who did score. Ibbetson was again the provider to McPherson, who kept his cool well to take a one on one chance with the keeper. The final score was Whakatane Town B 0, Plains Rangers 2.
This Saturday, Plains Rangers have a repeat trip to Whakatane, to take on the A team.
On Sunday Alignments Plus Ltd Plains Rangers women were away to Papamoa. The home team was too strong for Rangers, running out 10 - 0 winners. However, the game was played in excellent spirit with defender Ranee Whiting named player of the day.
This Sunday Rangers women are at home to Rotorua White, which should be an even contest.