Plains Rangers men got back to winning ways on Saturday. Rangers were at home to Papamoa in BOP division two and made a flying start. Rangers didn't allow their visitors to settle in the slippery conditions and soon had their noses in front. A long chip from the Rangers defence was spilled by the Papamoa keeper and lively striker Matt Orr-McKeown rolled it into the net. Shortly afterwards more Rangers pressure brought a goal of World Cup quality. Tiemen Corporaal junior got the ball to the line and squared it across goal. Tiemen Corporaal senior let it roll across him and backheeled it into the net. After thirty minutes, it was 3 – 0, with Corporaal senior panicking the defence into an own goal.
The second half brought a more determined showing from the visitors and an even battle was waged. Midway through the half a slip in the Rangers defence led to Papamoa scoring from the penalty spot for a handball. Shortly afterwards bad luck struck. With Corporaal senior slipping in the process of a shot at goal and dislocating his elbow. Rangers managed to hold on unscathed for the rest of the game for a good 3 – 1 win.
It was a much improved showing from the team, with steadiness in defence earning Barrie Hawkes player of the day. This Saturday Rangers' men are away to Rotorua United in the Bay Sportsmed Bowl.
On Sunday, Alignments Plus Plains Rangers women were away to Te Puke. Rangers started the game well, holding possession and their formation well. The game was locked up at 0 – 0 at half time. Despite a good showing from Joe Ingle in her first game in goal, Te Puke eventually scored and won the game 3 – 0. Rangers' player of the day was young defender Paige Pullar who had a great game at left back, backing up her fellow defenders and clearing the ball well.
This Sunday Rangers' women are at home to Taupo.