In stretching their unbeaten run in BOP division one to four games, Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers turned in a solid display against Rotorua United on Saturday.
While Rangers had the better of the play in the first half, a lack of patience meant they had little to show for it. The visitors had certainly improved over the first round, and their determination meant Rangers had to work hard.
After the break, the home team got their combinations working better and an early goal set the scene for a win. A powerful Caleb Hyndman shot was well saved by the Rotorua keeper, but James Mitchell followed up to force the ball home. Rotorua fought back and almost equalised with a long shot hitting the cross bar. Rangers came back, a great cross from Bas Overdevest was volleyed home by Mitchell. Rangers sealed the win when Hyndman latched onto a good pass from the midfield to burst into the box and score. The visitors had the last say however, pouncing on some defensive hesitations and putting away a good goal. The final score: Plains Rangers 3, Rotorua United 1.
Centre back Dan Baxter was named man of the match for Rangers. Jono Whitaker was another in top form, enjoying his defensive work and linking well going forward. This Saturday Rangers have a break from the league campaign, travelling to play Otumoetai Two in the Tasman Cup.