An excellent first half performance set up Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers for a good away win at Ngongotaha on Saturday.
The young home team started well, and it took Rangers a few minutes to get their game going. However, the Rangers defence was in no mood for conceding goals, with Ben Fretwell and Jordan Ogilvy in particular snuffing out attacks well. Rangers' best early chance was when Kirk Bain overlapped down the right wing, got into the penalty area and fired a good shot, but the Ngongotaha keeper saved well. It was his first save of quite a few as the game went on. Rangers played a lot of good build up football. After twenty five minutes a ball from Aaron Wood found Jaiden Ibbetson in the area. He turned well and fired home a good shot. Five minutes before half time, John Stephen fed the ball to Ibbetson on the break, he squared it across to Ben McPherson, who scored. At half time, the visitors led 2 - 0.
After the interval, Ngongotaha gained a better share of territory, although Rangers looked the more dangerous on the ball. The home keeper was called on several times to make good stops, but after twenty minutes, Rangers increased their lead. McPherson fed the ball to substitute Richie Nillesen, who hit a good first time shot past the advancing keeper. Rangers sat back as the game went on, and the home team got their hopes up, even hitting the woodwork twice late in the game. However, the Rangers defence held out, with the final score Ngongotaha 0, Plains Rangers 3.
Jaiden Ibbetson was named Rangers player of the day after an outstanding ninety minute performance on the left wing.
This Saturday, Rangers will be at home to Tauranga City Relics, in a top of the table clash. Relics are a strong, experienced team who play good football and Rangers will need to be on their game. Kick off at Awakeri will be at 2.30pm.
Plains Rangers women had a bye this weekend, but on Sunday they are away to Te Puke.