28 April 2001
Nelson Mail
By Simon Bloomberg
It doesn't get any easier for Ocean Lodge Nelson Suburbs when it plays Rangers in a Federation Six soccer game at Saxton Field tomorrow.
Nelson has been under the hammer in its last four games, conceding eight goals in losses to Avon United and Western. It secured a draw against Nomads and escaped with a fortuitous 2-1 win in its last game, against Marlborough.
Now Nelson meets a Rangers team that is second in the competition after winning six and drawing one of its seven games. The Christchurch side has a skilled attack and a ruthlessly efficient defence that has conceded just three goals.
Nelson coach George Campbell is fully aware of the challenge facing his team tomorrow. If Nelson produces another sub-standard display, he knows it will be punished.
"I haven't seen Rangers this season, but they will be very well organised and they play good football. We know exactly what we are in for," he said.
Campbell said he was concerned at Nelson's recent drop-off in form, but predicted the team would turn that around against Rangers. The return of defender Vic Gargiulo after a two-game suspension will strengthen the team, while playing at home after four consecutive away games will also give Nelson a much-needed boost.
There is also a possibility that striker Henry Fa'arodo will be back from the Solomon Islands. Fa'arodo is one of the fastest and most skilful attackers in the league, and if he plays he is capable of tarnishing Rangers' excellent defensive record.
The game kicks off at 1pm.
NELSON SUBURBS: Brook McMahon or Steve Pike, Martin Chandler (captain), David Capstick, Vic Gargulio, Simon Ashby, Matt Elliot, Paul Brown, Nigel Gibbons, Matt Ellery, George Molnar, Henry Fa'arodo or Matt Wilkinson. Substitutes: Allistar Delaney, Ryan Eddington, Ben Clotworthy, Andrew Stevenson, Andrew Hart.