The local derby between Whakatane Town and SLH Contracting Plains Rangers lived up to the anticipation on Saturday. Fine sunny weather made a pleasant change and brought out the spectators. Rangers were missing a couple of key players so player-coach Christian Wetting made some changes to his playing formation. It took about fifteen minutes before Rangers settled, but with Matt Dalgity marshalling the defence and Wetting himself unbeatable in goal, Whakatane were kept at bay.
The two teams were evenly matched, and the game ebbed and flowed throughout the ninety minutes in a competitive but good spirited encounter. At half time the score was nil all.
The strength of the Rangers midfield meant they controlled quite a bit of the second half, creating chances for Jaiden Ibbetson and Jamaal James in particular. Whakatane's keeper Johnno Smith had to be quick off his line to save bravely at the feet of Ibbetson in the game's best chance. The match ended 0 – 0, meaning Rangers retained the Sponsors' Cup. It was also a good rehearsal for the Bay Sportsmed Bowl final in which Rangers will play Papamoa in two week's time.
Player of the day for Rangers was Ben Sexton, who worked hard in the unaccustomed position of left half. The midfield trio of Ibbetson, Petir Gray and Mike Johnstone also impressed with some excellent passing.
This Saturday Rangers are away to Opotiki.