Rangers AFC off target

A horror start and an inability to convert their own chances cost Rangers AFC dearly against Nelson FC in their Nelson division one clash at A&P Park on Saturday.

Rangers lost 4-0 to the visiting combination, who were two-up within six minutes, then added two more before halftime to effectively shut the locals out of the match.

However, the scoreline does not tell the full story of what became a close encounter in all areas except the scoreboard, especially after the break.

Rangers were creative throughout, manufacturing a string of good chances to score but being denied, either by poor finishing or good goalkeeping.

The locals were left frustrated by their lack of goals, but pleased that they were able to create so many opportunities against a quality opposition, rated by many the most complete side in the competition.

Rangers’ stalwart Wolfie Waechter laughingly suggested at fulltime that, given their inability to convert on Saturday, they could have played for another hour and the scoreline would not have changed.

“It was just one of those days,” said Wolfie, “we threw everything at them and produced some excellent moments, but the goals just would not come.

“They are a very good side though and took their chances really well.”

Leading the way for FC Nelson was Phun Lian, who notched a hat-trick, while keeper Reza Rahsepar was another to stand out.

Bjorn Waechter in midfield was industrious and creative for Rangers, while winger Jeimar Zapata-Zuniga constantly troubled the FC Nelson defence, along with the lively Victor Crafts.

Next weekend Rangers have another home game, playing Richmond Athletic at A&P Park.

The latest round of Marlborough senior men’s football produced some one-sided scorelines. In the “masters match-up” Rangers Masters beat BV Masters 7-1, Rangers Athletic eclipsed Renwick Lonewolves 9-1, Central FC downed Trojans Strikers 8-0 and Trojans AFC hammered Central Wolves 7-0.

The closest match came when Rangers Reserves scraped past Rangers City 2-1 while Trojans Angels downed Trojans Spartans 4-1, Alex Duley bagging a hat-trick. Picton won by default over Rangers Colts.

Standings after 11 rounds: Trojans AFC 33, Rangers Reserves 28, Rangers Athletic 25, Central FC 22, Rangers Masters 22, Rangers City 21, Trojans Angels 17, Renwick 14, Central Wolves 14, Picton 10, Rangers Colts 7, BV Masters 6, Trojans Strikers 4, Trojans Spartans 0.

In the senior women’s grade Rangers Wairau Valley beat Picton 4-0 while BV Chicks and Trojans drew 0-0.

Standings after nine rounds: BV Chicks 19, Rangers 18, Picton 9, Trojans 7.