A strong one way wind greeted SLH Contracting Plains Rangers as they took the field at Papamoa in BOP division one on Saturday. The home team used the conditions well to keep Rangers pinned inside their own half for much of the first half an hour, hitting the crossbar twice in that time. Rangers eventually got some flow in their passing moves, particularly through James Hart, Jacob Heath and Jordan Ogilvy. This good patch of play brought the opening goal. Rangers centre midfielder Jason Pullar put the ball over the Papamoa defence for Ogilvy to run onto and he took the chance well to score. However, three minutes later, Papamoa bounced back. A free kick sailed through a sea of bodies and into the Rangers net. At half time the score was 1 – 1.
Rangers had the better of the play after the break, but couldn't keep the pressure on the home defence. The best chance was when Petir Gray had a good shot well saved by the Papamoa keeper. The game ended at 1 – 1. Defenders Jamaal James and Levi Riri impressed throughout with their tenacity.
This Saturday Rangers have a cup game, at home to division two leaders Taupo Lakers, kick off at 2pm. It is likely to be a stern test for the home team.
On Sunday Plains Rangers women hosted Rotorua United. Rangers fought hard throughout. They were down 3 – 0 at half time and lost 7 – 0 in the end. Defender Emma Bradnock was named player of the day. Rangers women will look forward to their away game at Ngongotaha this Sunday, which should be an even encounter.

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