Rangers AFC bounce back in emphatic fashion

Five first half goals against Nelson Suburbs Development tonight at A&P Park ensured Rangers AFC quickly atoned for a below-par performance on Saturday.

Rangers accounted for Suburbs, who were equal with them on the points table before kick-off, in emphatic fashion, clearly stung by their first loss of the season four days ago, a 2-0 reversal to Richmond.

Tonight, it took only five minutes for the home side to get into their work, striker Sam Pearson nodding home their first, beginning a goal rush that would continue for the next 25 minutes.

With midfielders Tore and Bjorn Waechter, Harrison Pine, plus Sam Hickmott pulling the strings in midfield, chances came thick and fast and they were gratefully converted. Jono Masters smashed home the second, Adam Rose netted twice in two minutes then inspirational player/coachTore Waechter made it 5-0 on the half hour mark as an energised Rangers crew left their predominantly-youthful opposition chasing shadows around the dimly-lit park.

Rangers lost Keagan Mortimer early with a hamstring twinge, but youngster Kane Elvy was an admirable replacement. Dylan Endersby and Julian Delgado both excelled off the bench.

Suburbs possessed several skilful players but, with Rangers cutting down their time and space on the ball, clear-cut chances were few and far between, keeper Liam Kennedy under-utilised.

The home side’s defensive unit, superbly marshalled by centre back Jordy Columbus, mopped up potential threats at the back, with possession quickly transferred through midfield to eager front-runners.

Although Rangers were scoreless in the second spell, they could have doubled their score, hitting the woodwork on occasion and narrowly missing the target a couple of times when it seemed easier to score.

Next assignment for Rangers AFC is another home game, against FC Nelson at A&P Park on Saturday.  Kick off is 1pm.