FC77 Rangers 1, NW Bike United 3

(Scorer: McConnachie 85')

28 October 2007

James McConnachie's eighty-fifth minute strike gave him a club-leading six goals for the season and kept the Rangers from being shut out against always competitive NW Bike United. Oddly enough, 'Gers managed to keep the majority of possession for the first half and held the ball at least 50% of the second half, but it was United that made the most of their few chances and earned the win. The result was identical to last spring's match at Milwaukie High School and was admittedly disappointing given that Bike was only a position or two ahead of the Yellow and Black in the table. The match was well-attended by supporters and family and Jim Snyder's children, Ethan and Rory, were Junior Rangers for the afternoon.

Sean Ingersoll

FC77 Rangers 1 vs. NW Bike United 3

(Scorer: King 47')

6 June, 2007

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