Rangers reach cup semifinal

Rangers AFC reached the semifinals of the Price Charity Cup with a commanding 5-0 win over Nelson Suburbs Reserves at Saxton Fields in Nelson on Saturday.

Despite missing several regulars, Rangers made a strong start, dominating midfield through Pat Fleming, Ben Lindfield and Bjorn Waechter, with Josh Clamp and Caleb McAulay in support. Their dominance paid off in a 20-minute burst midway through the first half, Rangers finding the back of the net four times, Bjorn Waechter providing three assists for the dangerous duo of Jeimar Zapata and McAulay to score two goals apiece.

The home side responded with some free-flowing football but Rangers’ defence of Victor Crafts, James Parley and Tore Waechter held firm.

Midway through the second half McAulay notched his hat-trick to complete a satisfactory outing for the visiting crew.

Rangers are now hoping for a home semifinal, to have at least one cup game in front of their loyal supporters.

On the local scene, three sides are now tied at the top of the Marlborough senior men’s competition after Saturday’s action.

Just two div one games were played after Central FC won by default over Rangers Masters.

The game between Rangers Reserves and Rangers Athletic ended in a scoreless draw, while the match between Trojans AFC and Rangers City was won 7-1 by Trojans.

Points: Reserves 11, Trojans 11, Athletic 11, Central 6, Masters 3, City 0.

In division two, wins went to Renwick, who beat Central Wolves 3-0, Trojans Angels, who downed Trojans Spartans 8-0, Rangers Colts, who overcame BV Masters 2-1, and Picton who beat Trojans Strikers 6-0.

Points: Picton 12, Renwick 10, Colts 10, Wolves 9, BV Masters 6, Strikers 6, Angels 3, Spartans 3.

The finalists have been found in the senior women’s grade.

In the battle for the Zydenbos Shield, Rangers Wairau Valley Weapons beat Picton 4-2 in one semifinal, while BV Chicks overcame Trojans 5-0 in the other knockout clash.