Knowing how to use the local conditions helped Otumoetai fend off Plains Rangers in their BOP division one clash on Saturday.
Rangers lost the toss and played into a strong head wind in the first half. The home team used the long ball to pin Rangers in their own half for much of the forty-five minutes. However, Rangers played some good football working their way forward. Their best moment was an exquisite cross from James Mitchell, picking out Matt Ward bursting into the home penalty area. Ward controlled the ball with a good touch, but his shot missed. Rangers defended well and kept their goal intact. At half time the score was 0 - 0.
Otumoetai shocked the visitors with an early goal after the break, some sloppy marking making for an easy finish. Rangers looked to bounce back and had a couple of chances in the penalty area, but couldn't convert. Mitchell curled a great freekick over the wall but the home keeper managed to palm it over the bar. Otumoetai sewed the game up with fifteen minutes to go, with a good solo effort. The final score was Otumoetai 2, Plains Rangers 0.
Maybe it was the effects of the tough local derby the week before, but Rangers struggled to impose themselves. However, James Mitchell's good display earned him man of the match.
This Saturday Rangers are at home to Tauranga City United, and will look to extract revenge for their last meeting. Kick-off at the Edgecumbe Domain is at 2.30 pm