Premier Cup Exit

Both teams made plentiful changes to their line-up for this Premier Division Cup quarter final on Thursday. Only four of the Rangers team that started in the league win against Harefield two nights previous started this cup tie, including the impressive Ben Sturgess in an unfamiliar centre-half role, whilst Hadley also made several changes due to suspensions and fatigue. In an entertaining game both sides showed why they currently sit second and third in the table. The first chance came to Liam Enver-Marum, who couldn't quite bring down an excellent ball from Adam Morris with just the keeper to beat. Hadley countered with a good shot from the edge of the box, well saved by Jack Brooker. Six minutes later and another Hadley effort was well wide of the far post. Good work by Rangers' Bailey Osbourne ended with Enver-Marum toe poking just wide. Shortly after And Evans Lamboh had the ball in the Hadley net but the ball was adjudged to have gone out of play in the build up. 17 minutes in and Hadley scored the only goal of the game when Baird controlled well and finished on the volley. Rangers almost conceded a second two minutes later when a looping back-pass was well saved by Brooker and soon after a timely tackle by Alex Sethi foiled Hadley after Morris was dispossessed deep in his own half. A good move by Rangers ended with Osbourne forcing a good save and with five minutes to the break Asher Yearwood' penetrating run was stopped by an excellent tackle in the Hadley area. A superb move from Rangers followed with Laurence Clark turning left and then right to shoot, his shot blocked by some great defending. On the stroke of half time Osbourne hit a fierce strike that was deflected over the bar with the keeper wrong footed as Rangers pressed for the equaliser.

The second half saw Rangers enjoy the majority of the ball for long periods, but with Hadley defending strongly the home sides chances were limited. The first effort came after six minutes pf the half when a rare break by Hadley saw an easy save by Brooker. Rangers' Evans Lamboh followed this with a good effort just clearing the crossbar following a steady build up. Ten minutes in and Patrick set Osbourne through. the youngster shooting wide under pressure. Osbourne again honed in on goal following a neat move, this time his shot deflected over for a corner. Rangers continued to be camped in the Hadley half with the occasional foray by the visitors. Around 75 minutes a couple of Hadley half chances were easily dealt with by Rangers. A Hadley corner, with ten minutes to go, was flicked just wide. As Hadley managed the game for the final minutes the only chance of note came in the last minute after new man, Josh Parker, crossed for Sam Pekun, his header looping into the trusty hands of the Hadley keeper. The final whistle came and Hadley deservedly move on to the semi-final following a solid nights work and a worthy winning goal. Rangers must wonder how so much possession created so few chances, with the Hadley keeper rarely tested in the second period. However, they have more important work this Saturday when they take on local rivals, Holmer Green, at the BEP Stadium in the league. Kick-off 3pm.

Rangers Man of the Match: Asher Yearwood. A wholehearted display, full of energy, passion and skill, especially coming so soon after a very good display two nights previously. Great fitness levels!