Despite a number of changes from last week's line up, Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers put together some good football to secure their first win. Ngongotaha were the visiting team to Awakeri. They played some good football through the midfield and scored an early goal. Rangers bounced back. Jacob Heath sent over a corner, which was flicked on by John Stephen, and Dean Butterworth squared the ball back for the goal. Rangers continued to dominate the half and led 4 - 2 at the break. The second half saw Ngongotaha have more possession and they eventually got a goal back, but Rangers hung on for a deserved 4 - 3 win.
Matt Dalgity was named player of the day. He led by example and kept the team organised as they hung onto their lead. There were good performances all round. Rangers will want to produce a similar showing this Saturday when they host Kawerau Town in a local derby. Kick off at Awakeri is at 2.30pm.
In the women's league Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers traveled to last year's champions Old Blues. The home team was too strong for Rangers and ran out comfortable winners. Rangers' player of the day was their busy keeper Colleen Pryde.
Rangers women are also at home in a local derby this weekend, meeting Whakatane Town at Awakeri on Sunday at 12.30pm.