Rangers Reserves step up

Rangers Reserves moved to the top of the Marlborough division one football table with a 3-1 victory over previously-unbeaten Central Buccaneers at A&P Park on Saturday.

In a highly-entertaining encounter, Reserves recovered from the concession of an early goal to Daniel Segovia to score three unanswered goals. They led 2-1 at halftime, goals to Nathan Brooke-Taylor and Jonty Gifford pushing them in front.

In the second spell a 73^rd minute goal to Tima Taylor gave them a two-goal buffer which they maintained until the final whistle.

Rangers’ win, coupled with a victory by Trojans, means three teams are now tied at the top of the table, although Reserves have only played twice, as opposed to their rivals who have both played three matches.

In the other match, on the adjoining pitch at A&P Park, Trojans dug deep to get the better of BV Los Cafeteros 2-1 in a full-blooded encounter.

All three goals were penalties, elusive frontrunner Francisco Zimmerman converting from the spot after 16 minutes, then Trojans midfielder Steve McGinnity holding his nerve to slot home twice and wrap up a hard-fought win.

As the match wore on tempers became frayed, resulting in two Los Cafeteros players being shown red cards for committing two yellow card offences.

Points: Reserves 6, Trojans 6, Trojans 6, Los Cafeteros 0, Central Wolves 0.

Once again, there was no shortage of scoring in the four division two games played, a total of 27 goals being netted on a sunny afternoon.

Picton Crow Tavern and BV Masters sit atop the points table after three consecutive wins.

On Saturday, Picton beat Rangers City 3-1, while Masters prevailed 6-2 over Trojans Spartans, Michael Jay providing five goals to keep his side flying high.

Rangers Masters continued their encouraging form with a 5-3 win over Trojans Reds, while Central Privateers, who led 4-0 at one stage, hung on for a 4-3 win over Trojans Strikers.

Points: Picton 9, BV Masters 9, Rangers City 6, Rangers Masters 6, Central Privateers 4, Trojans Reds 1, Trojans Spartans 0, Trojans Strikers 0.

The Rangers AFC side had a weekend off from Nelson division one duties, their scheduled opponents, FC Nelson having Chatham Cup commitments.