It was a bright finish to the league campaign for Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers when they hosted Tauranga City United at Awakeri on Saturday.
Rangers adjusted well to the greasy conditions and played some flowing football. They found themselves in front early, when striker Aaron Muggeridge controlled a long pass into the penalty area, turned and put it wide of the keeper. It was a nice goal and more were to come. Player-coach Christian Wetting had challenged his players to win their individual duels with their opponents, and across the park the Rangers team was the more willing.
Rangers won a free kick 25 metres out from the Tauranga goal, and captain Richie Nillesen took the shot early, catching the defenders napping and putting the home team two up. Late in the half, a solo run from player of the day Ben McPherson ended with a good shot and Rangers led at the break 3 - 0.
In the second half, the visitors were determined to get some reward for their trip and they played some nice football. The South American background of a number of their players was apparent through their crisp passing and they attacked the Rangers defence willingly. The defence coped well however, with centre back pairing Dan Baxter and Kirk Bain in command, although keeper Wetting did have to make a couple of very good saves. Rangers also had their moments on attack, but the score remained 3 - 0 to the end.
It was a pleasing finish to the BOP division two campaign and sees Rangers in fourth place, but having a bye in the last round.
This Saturday, Rangers play the much anticipated sponsors' challenge against the Whakatane Federation League team. Pullar Builders Whakatane plays Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers at Rex Morpeth Park, with kick-off likely to be 2pm.