A local derby is always an exciting way to start the football
season. Kawerau Town were at home to Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers
on Saturday. The home team played with enthusiasm, but Rangers played
controlled football and it paid dividends.
After fifteen minutes, defender Jeremy Hawkes won the ball and fed the
midfield. Richie Nillesen and Tom Davison combined to create a chance
for Cameron Wills and he slipped the ball under the advancing keeper to
open the scoring. Striker Scott Marrow was the next provider, squaring
the ball from the left for Wills to finish well under pressure from the
defence. Rangers had the better share of possession, and Marrow thundered
two good shots onto the woodwork, but the half time score remained 2 -
0.
The game's pattern resumed in the second half, with player of the day
Tom Davison controlling the play from the midfield. James Krause put Scott
Marrow through with a nice pass and he scored Rangers' third. Davison
put the icing on the cake with a 25 metre drive that the Kawerau keeper
couldn't keep out. The final score was Kawerau Town 0, Plains Rangers
4.
Coach Aaron Muggeridge was pleased with his side's football and their
start to the league. Sam Morris and Hayden Marrow also did well in their
debuts, working well in a back four that gave few chances for Kawerau
to test goalkeeper Adam Mayor.
This Saturday Rangers will be wary of their opponents Tauranga City, who
opened their campaign with a 5 - 0 win. Kick off at Awakeri is at 2.30
pm.
Plains Rangers women's team had their first outing today, a daunting encounter,
playing the highly regarded Whakatane Town team. Rangers have a few experienced
players, but are mostly women who have not played senior football before.
While Rangers were soundly beaten, they showed plenty of spirit, fighting
to the final whistle. Ann-Elise Reynolds was their player of the day,
showing plenty of promise on attack. Midfielder Esther Geerlings and defender
Kelly Wilson also stood out for Rangers.
Rangers' women's next opponents are Tauranga City, kick off 12.30pm on
Sunday at Awakeri.
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