It was another battling day at the office for Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers, when they hosted Old Blues in BOP division one on Saturday.
For the first time in several weeks Rangers had enough players to have substitutes available. The visitors caught Rangers napping, scoring an early goal. The game developed in a contrast of styles, Rangers playing a short passing game but Old Blues using a more direct style. Midway through the first half Rangers were forced to use one of their subs when captain Richard Nillesen aggravated an ankle injury. At half time centre back Dan Baxter was forced from the field as well, with the visitors leading 2 - 0.
The second half saw Rangers continue to have patches of good play, encouraging their vocal supporters, but Old Blues' solid all round team work was enough for them to score twice more. The final score Plains Rangers 0, Old Blues 4.
Rangers have a week off this week, and will hope this allows time for injuries to heal and allow a strong line-up to face neighbours Whakatane on August 23. Keeper Christian Wetting had a strong game against Old Blues; Jono Whitaker was also in good form in defence.