The Rangers took to the field at Milwaukie High School with a full complement of players (we haven't played short yet this season--not too bad!) and as goalkeeper Steve Berg raced down I-5 to make the second half, Jay Abramowitz graciously offered to stand between the posts. The weather was fine, the pitch wasn't awful, and play moved from end to end for the opening fifteen minutes. Bike opted to play a long ball game and got two goals within ten or fifteen minutes of one another midway through the opening half. This could have deflated the 'Gers all together, but instead the squad continued to battle back. One series in particular down the right flank involved five different players give-and-going, moving to space, reversing the field and ultimately giving Aaron Radigan a crack at goal.
Historically, the team has struggled the opening ten minutes after the restart, but not today. With Jay yielding the gloves to Steve Berg and partnering with Scott Anderson as the tall center backs, Rangers went right on the offensive. Another right side run yielded a decent shot that clanged off the woodwork...only to see Ron King hit the rebound and beat the hopelessly out of position United keeper. Just like that, the Rangers were back in it. Sean Ingersoll, finally back after a two-month injury, worked the left sideline to harass the United defenders and teamed up with Dan Holstein on at least three corner set plays. Sean also shanked a shot so far to the right that it was a wonder our fans on the sideline weren't injured...but I digress. As the match wore on, Bike started getting better looks at our goal and asking questions. Their third goal, about ten minutes from time, was a cracker from outside the box that found the upper right corner.
A large, mostly pro-Rangers crowd (eight of our fans to two of theirs--in your face, Bike!) came out to watch and, as always, their support is greatly appreciated. McKenzie Anderson wore the Junior Ranger jersey and faithfully stayed for the entire evening. Maybe we should have a promotional night for the kids at the next match? Maybe if you make a Rangers poster and proudly display it on our sideline, maybe you'll get a surprise the following week. Maybe it will be a good surprise from Far Post Soccer Supply and not be lame.
Maybe...
Sean Ingersoll
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