A whole hearted team effort paved the way for Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers to turn around their result against Ngongotaha Raukura in BOP division one on Saturday.
In the first round, Ngongotaha had given Rangers an 8 - 1 hiding, playing excellent football. However, Rangers started out well on Saturday and took the lead after ten minutes. Right fullback Paul Inglis played the ball on for Chris Johnston, who delivered a cross to the far post, where left midfielder Jordan Ogilvy met it with a powerful header. The game was played in a good spirit and with plenty of ebb and flow for the spectators to enjoy. Rangers' keeper Brendan Oats was called on to make a couple of one-on-one saves, which he did well. Late in the half Ngongotaha evened the scores up with a back heeled goal.
The second half continued in a similar vein, with chances at both ends. Ogilvy missed from close range, and Luke Overworth had two good strikes at goal. Rangers defence was staunch, and the game ended in a 1 - 1 draw.
Referee Paul Higgins did a sound job controlling the game, and Rangers coach Aaron Muggeridge would be well pleased with his team's showing, compared to the earlier result. Vince Russ was named player of the day for his work in defence, but all the players performed very well.
This Saturday Rangers are away to Te Puke in the CNS Clinic Bowl competition.