Four excellent goals capped off a real team effort by Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers when they were at home to Old Blues on Saturday.
Rangers and Old Blues started reasonably evenly, but the home team's patient play soon gained them the edge in territory. Some good passing in defence and holding up of the ball by new strike partners Josh Van Veen and Jeremy Hawkes set a good platform. The first goal came from sweeper Aaron Muggeridge, who spotted winger Ben McPherson in a good position. McPherson outstripped his marker, then cut back to beat the covering defence for a good goal. Midway through the first half a well taken free kick by Richie Nillesen was headed deftly in at the far post by Hawkes. Rangers led 2 - 0 at half time.
An early goal after the interval by Van Veen, who finished a one-on-one in style, looked to have Rangers cruising. Van Veen got on the end of an exquisite pass from debutant Josh Hyndman but a brilliant save from the Old Blues keeper denied that one. However the visitors kept plugging away and were rewarded with a powerful headed goal at the back post following a corner. Rangers sealed their win when a Van Veen cutback was bundled into the net amidst a sea of defenders by Hawkes. The final score Plains Rangers 4, Old Blues 1.
The win was a satisfying one for injured player-coach Christian Wetting, who saw two moves practised at training produce goals in the game. Wetting named the whole team effort player of the day. This Saturday Rangers are away to Te Puke Reserves.