It was back to winning ways for Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers on Saturday. Rangers traveled to play AFC Fury Reserves at Te Puna. From the start Rangers were the stronger team, but Fury tackled hard and were stubborn opposition early on. A good cutback from left winger Ben McPherson set up right winger Simon Gowing for a well hit opening goal. Midway through the half a Gowing cross was headed into the goal by an unfortunate Fury defender.
In the second half, Rangers created a lot of chances. The first to benefit was Josh Hyndman, who scored his first goal for Rangers, putting the ball under the keeper from close range. Shortly after, Hyndman set up Gowing for his second. Aaron Muggeridge capitalised on his return to the striking role with a goal, pouncing on a loose ball and blasting it in. Although Rangers did have quite a few other opportunities, including a spectacular overhead kick by Hyndman, the final score remained AFC Fury 0 Plains Rangers 5.
This Saturday is the last of the first round of BOP div two, with the league split following it. Rangers are at home to Otumoetai Two, who knocked over their number One team this weekend. Rangers will want to beat their visitors to make sure they finish in the top half of the split. Kick-off at the Edgecumbe Domain is likely to be at 2 pm.