Plains Rangers began their football season in the BOP leagues last weekend. Both teams acknowledged the sad passing in the off season of long time club secretary and life member Margaret Elliot, also the tragic loss of the women’s team’s most promising player Holly Davis before the games kicked off. Rangers’ men were away at Otumoetai in BOP division 2. Rangers started well, creating a number of chances, but the home team keeper was in good form. However, Otumoetai got their game going and scored two well taken goals before the break. A third goal after half time didn’t dampen Rangers endeavours and they came back. Christian Wetting scored from the penalty spot and then had a pile driver well saved. Otumoetai took out the game 3 – 1.
On Sunday Alignments Plus Rangers women played Whakatane Town. Rangers held out well, with keeper Ashleigh Daines in good form, for over 40 minutes before Whakatane scored to have a one goal lead at half time. The home team eventually overcame Rangers 6 – 0, but it was a good contest. Mary Pease earned player of the day with a strong performance in defence.
This Saturday Rangers’ men are at home at Awakeri at 2.30pm to Ngongotaha, who had a narrow loss to AFC Fury in the first round. Rangers’ women are also at home on Sunday, at 12.30pm. They have the daunting task of playing Rotorua United, who beat their club mates Rotorua United White by a massive 30 nil last weekend!