Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers announced their return to BOP division one with a good opening performance. Rangers were away to Rotorua United in dry dusty conditions.
Rangers controlled the game from early on and had the home team under considerable pressure. Captain Richie Nillesen swung in a free kick after ten minutes and striker James Mitchell hit a superb left foot volley into the net to open the scoring. Mitchell had the misfortune to see another volley come back off the woodwork, and at times the Rotorua penalty area looked like a pinball machine. A number of Rangers players went close, and when Rotorua did break out, the Rangers defence was in a determined mood.
It took into the second half before Rangers added to the tally, a good cross from substitute Jono Whitaker was finished off with a stylish touch by Caleb Hyndman. Hyndman had another powerful drive well saved by the keeper. The final twist came in the last minute of play when a Rotorua midfielder ran the ball into the box, went down under pressure and earned his team a penalty. It was converted well. The final score was Rotorua United 1, Plains Rangers 2.
Coach Christian Wetting was pleased with his team's strong all-round performance, especially considering the limited time the team had together pre-season. This Saturday there will be a sterner test, with Rangers hosting Te Puke at the Awakeri sports field. Kick-off is at 2.30 pm.

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