Plains Rangers AFC
26 May 2001 v Otumoetai
It was a fiery baptism for a hastily rearranged Plains Rangers
side when
they hosted Otumoetai in soccer’s BOP Division One on Saturday.
Rangers were a few players down, due to injury, illness and work
commitments and knew it would be a tough game. The visitors started off
with some excellent attacking football. Within five minutes they had opened
their account, and, despite Rangers’ best efforts, Otumoetai had put away
four goals within the first twenty minutes. The Edgecumbe based Rangers
side already knew at this early stage that they were playing for pride. Led
by
a brave performance by keeper Daniel Overdevest, they defended their line
successfully for the remainder of the half.
Three substitutions fifteen minutes into the second half brought an almost
immediate reward. Josh van Veen made his debut in senior football, and in a
strong challenge on an Otumoetai defender he scored an amazing goal. The
defender’s clearance rebounded from van Veen to soar 25 metres, over the
hurriedly backpedalling Otumoetai keeper, into the goal. There were grins
all round, and also a lift in the home team’s play. Rangers managed to
secure a reasonable share of possession and started to put some pressure on
with the speed of their front-runners. Midway through the half, Ashley
Hawkes cut inside his marker at right half and put Dion Lowry in with a
chance. The Otumoetai keeper got down to block the shot, but Hawkes was
on hand to put the ball past the defenders on the line for a well-taken goal.
By this stage, Rangers’ midfield had gained at least parity with their
visitors
and enjoyed making their presence felt. Otumoetai had the last say however,
when they scored with a well placed shot from the edge of the penalty area,
following a corner. The final score Plains Rangers 2, Otumoetai 5.
While the final result was disappointing, at least Rangers rediscovered the
determination that had been missing the week before. Ashley Hawkes was
named player of the day after a skilful showing. Bas Overdevest and Simon
Ruiter ran themselves into the ground in the midfield, with Overdevest in
particular producing some quality football.
This Saturday Plains Rangers are away to Rotorua City, who have had a
revival after a slow start to the season.
Forward to BOP Div One points table