A football game might last for ninety minutes, but it only takes a few seconds to decide the outcome. It was a clash of 3rd on the table playing 4th when Tauranga City United came to play Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers at Awakeri on Saturday, and it turned out to be a very competitive battle. Rangers used their quick breaking strike force with some good midfield build up to put the early pressure on United. The visitors used their possession well when they got it, with some good passing and ball retention. A crucial moment came after fifteen minutes, when pressure on the United defence led to a moment of uncertainty by the goalkeeper. Rangers left winger Adam Barkla raced in to win possession and score. While Rangers did have the better of the half, United had their spells of pressure, including one moment when Rangers fullback Dylan Arthur headed the ball off the line.
The second half was a willing contest, with the visitors' frustration building up, as they couldn't use their improved play to gain the equaliser. United created several chances, only to put them over the top of goal. In the final play of the game, United won a corner and scored, following a moment resembling pinball in front of the Rangers goal. The final score was Plains Rangers 1, Tauranga City United 1.
While having to settle for a draw was hard for Rangers to take, it was probably a fair result. Coach Aaron Muggeridge was pleased with the football Rangers produced and named Jeremy Hawkes player of the day for his work in the centre midfield.
This Saturday sees the start of the second round, with Rangers at home to Old Blues. Kick off at Awakeri will be at 2.30pm.