A big crowd turned out to enjoy the first ever Sponsors Challenge between the Pullar Builders Whakatane first team and Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers on Saturday. Although the two teams play in different divisions in BOP soccer, this was always going to be a willing encounter.
First division side Whakatane attacked with pace from the outset and put third division Rangers under a lot of pressure. After ten minutes Whakatane were ahead. From there on some stout defence kept Whakatane honest, and several shots also managed to hit the Rangers posts before being cleared. Later in the half Rangers had adjusted to the speed of the game and were starting to put some attacks together too. At half time Whakatane led 1 - 0.
In the second half Rangers competed well, but a couple of soft goals didn't help their cause. Injuries to key players Richie Nillesen and Jason Pullar caused adjustment and reorganisation. Rangers pulled a goal back through Hamiora Awhimate and Jeremy Hawkes went close after a sweeping move. However Whakatane had the last say with a spectacular overhead kick by their coach Gavin Rothwell finding the net. The final score Whakatane 5 Rangers 1.
The teams, the crowd and the sponsors all enjoyed the occasion and a sporting spirit prevailed. Players of the day were Simon Gowing and Jamie Beharry.