On Saturday SLH Contracting Plains Rangers travelled to play Ngongotaha in BOP division two. Rangers lost the toss and played into the wind and rain in the first half. Ngongotaha made the most of their advantage and pinned Rangers back for quite a while. They were 2 – 0 ahead when Rangers thought they had started a come-back. A Hamish Wilde shot was parried by the keeper and left winger Jordan Ogilvy put away the rebound. However, the goal was ruled out, amidst protests, for another player being off side. The home team continued to play good one-touch football and caught Rangers out twice more before the interval.
Down 4 – 0 at half time, Rangers turned around with the elements at their backs and kept the home team under the pump. However, the chances came and went, enough to at least even up the scores. With fifteen minutes to go Hamish Wilde was put through and he slotted it past the keeper. The ball did stick in the mud, but luckily it had crossed the line first! The home team had the last say however, with a tall striker back-heading the ball over stand-in keeper Levi Riri to give Ngongotaha a 5 – 1 win.
Rangers will need to put away their chances better in future. Jordan Ogilvy's ninety minute effort earned him player of the day. This Saturday Rangers are at home to Papamoa.
On Sunday Plains Rangers women's game against Kawerau was transferred to Tarawera Park, because of the pitch conditions at Awakeri. Kawerau were determined in their play and scored from two strong attacks early in the game. Rangers settled into their work more as the half went on, with striker Janie Paling putting on the pressure.
In the second half the game was more even for the most part with Rangers having their share of attacks. Mikaela Mathis scored midway through the half when the Kawerau keeper couldn't keep out a well hit free kick from 30 metres. Ten minutes later Kawerau replied with a well hit shot and they wrapped up the scoring late in the game to win 4 – 1.
Mathis was player of the day for Rangers, with Julie Reihana and Janie Paling also in top form. This Sunday Rangers women are away to neighbours Whakatane Town.

.