Finally... a change of fortune for Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers, and what better place for it to happen than at the home of neighbouring rivals Whakatane Town.
Rangers lined up for the BOP division one clash on the back of eight weeks without a win, and with a regular struggle for fit players. The home team started brightly, but couldn't make a lot of headway against a well organised defence. Midway though the first half, Rangers struck. A Jordan Ogilvy header was not claimed cleanly by the Whakatane keeper and Ogilvy pounced, burying the loose ball into the net. Buoyed by the goal, Rangers were getting the better of some individual battles across the park, and kept their cool in the face of some strong tackles. Whakatane were relieved to see a Rangers shot bounce away off the post. Late in the half, Rangers player-coach, Christian Wetting, had to be at his best, pawing away a good shot from the right and collecting the rebound.
At half time Wetting reminded his players to keep doing the simple things well, and the plan worked well for the second half. Good passing, and support play kept possession for decent lengths of time and wore out the Whakatane attackers. Midway though the half Bas Overdevest rose majestically to head a Simon Gowing corner into the goal and give Rangers a comfortable lead. Captain Richard Nillesen almost increased the lead soon after with an acrobatic effort that was well saved. The large crowd appreciated the willing contest that was fought till the end. The game was refereed in excellent style by Ian Finch. The final score: Whakatane Town 0, Plains Rangers 2.
Wetting named defender Jono Whitaker player of the day, and there were many other fine performances, notably Overdevest's and James Mitchell's fine work in centre midfield. This coming Saturday, Rangers are away to Tauranga City United in a catch up game.