It was deja vu all over again at the Awakeri Sportsfield on Saturday. Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers were at home to Ngongotaha in the Bay Sportsmed Bowl. These two teams met last week in a league game, at the same venue.
The similarities continue... After a fairly even opening period, a John Stephen header went very close to going over the Ngongotaha line, but goal line technology would have been needed to make a goal decision. However, Rangers were not to be denied, five minutes later Ben McPherson did score after a solo run. Rangers' pressure was telling. Jaiden Ibbetson, who was in a number of bruising challenges throughout the game, flicked a header over the advancing visiting keeper and then bundled it over the line. Despite queries from the Ngongotaha defence, this time the goal was awarded. Just like last week, at half time Rangers led 2 - 0.
Soon after the restart, a great run from defence by Rangers' player of the day Ben Fretwell led to a McPherson shot being well saved. Ngongotaha had a resurgence and there was a decent spell of cut and thrust. Midway through the half, however, Rangers extended their lead. Good work from left winger Jacob Heath provided the ball to the dangerous Ibbetson and he set up right full back Kirk Bain to bury the ball in the net.
Late in the game McPherson had a header hit the bar and defender James Hart had a header well saved, meaning the final score was identical to the previous week and the meeting earlier in the season. Plains Rangers 3, Ngongotaha 0.
This means Rangers are through to the semi final, which is played on September the first. This Saturday though, Rangers return to league action, with the tough assignment of being away to table toppers Tauranga City Relics. If Rangers can keep their positive football going, it should make for a good contest.
In the women's league, Plains Rangers had a difficult game in Taupo, suffering a heavy defeat. Their player of the day was centre defender Kelly Wilson. She was ably supported by Mary Collier and Donna Bain was strong in midfield.