The spectators watching the Bay Sports Centre Cup match between SLH Contracting Plains Rangers and the visiting Taupo team were treated to a good game of football on Saturday. Rangers were missing a number of regular starters and they knew the visiting Bay Two league leaders would be a challenge.
Both teams set out to play good football. Taupo had some slick combinations, but Rangers had a good defensive shape and they held firm. Jason Pullar and Christian Wetting made a good pairing in the centre midfield and Jordan Ogilvy made good mileage down the left and came close with one attempt. However, it was the class of Alan Lamb that broke the deadlock. The skilful Taupo midfielder beat two challengers and slotted the ball inside the far post of the Rangers goal. Late in the half keeper Matt Eveleens left the field injured and Wetting had to drop back between the sticks.
Taupo had more possession in the second half, but again Rangers did well on defence. Midway through the half the visitors increased their lead with a well-judged header from a swirling cross. Soon after that Rangers had their best chance, with Petir Gray beating two defenders in a great run into the box, but neither he nor striker Andy Willis could quite get the final touch. The dismissal of Hamish Wilde with ten minutes to go ended Rangers hopes for a late rally. The final score was Plains Rangers 0, Taupo 2.
The loss means Rangers will now drop into the bowl competition. Their player of the day was centre defender Peter Kirkbride, who kept trying to make a difference right to the end. Rangers will be back at Awakeri in league action this Saturday with the visit of Otumoetai. Kick off is at 2pm.
On Sunday Plains Rangers women travelled to play Ngongotaha. Rangers were, like the men, missing a few players, however they started out brightly and were level at 2 – 2 midway through the game. However, despite a whole hearted effort from the visitors, the home team gained the upper hand and went on to win 7 – 2. Cassidy Spillman scored both Rangers goals.
This Sunday Rangers women are, just like the men, at home to Otumoetai. Kick off is at 12.30pm.

.