Mens First Team: Highfield Rangers 5 – 2 Cottesmore AFC
Highfield Rangers 5 – 2 Cottesmore AFC: Rangers Extend Winning Run
Highfield Rangers continued their surge up the table with a commanding 5-2 victory over Cottesmore AFC, making it six straight wins and cementing their status as the division’s in-form team. Despite not reaching their usual heights, Rangers showed their class when it mattered, producing moments of quality to secure another vital three points.
First Half:
Rangers began with attacking intent but found Cottesmore difficult to break down, as the visitors worked hard to disrupt their usual fluid play. Despite creating chances, Rangers lacked their usual ruthlessness in front of goal.
Just before half-time, the breakthrough finally arrived. Tariq Mahmood’s defensive work set the stage for a well-executed counterattack, with Raijuan Morris-Laing displaying excellent footwork before teeing up Yankuba Rumpuwarch for a composed finish, giving Rangers a deserved lead at the interval.
Second Half:
Rangers came out with renewed urgency and wasted no time doubling their advantage. Morris-Laing, once again at the heart of the action, picking the ball up & cutting inside to find the bottom corner with a clinical strike that put Rangers firmly in control.
Their dominance continued when Morris-Laing turned provider again, showing outstanding individual skill before laying the ball off to Charlie Patterson, who finished smartly to make it 3-0.
With 15 minutes remaining, Rangers allowed Cottesmore a lifeline. The visitors pulled one back from a disputed free-kick that struck the crossbar before potentially crossing the line. Moments later, a swift counterattack resulted in a stunning top-corner finish, suddenly reducing the deficit to 3-2 with ten minutes to play. Sensing the need to regain control, Rangers responded emphatically. Oliver Ellie produced a moment of individual brilliance, weaving past three defenders before slotting home to restore their two-goal cushion.
The victory was sealed in style when player-manager Kyron Stabana stepped up to curl a superb free-kick into the top corner, capping off another impressive performance for Rangers.
Full Time: Highfield Rangers 5 – 2 Cottesmore AFC
With this result, Rangers now have eight wins from their last ten matches and remain firmly in the hunt for a top-five finish. Their ability to grind out results, even on days when they aren’t at their best, highlights their growing maturity and determination.
Man of the Match: Anyiah King
The commanding centre-back was outstanding at the heart of the defence, reading the game superbly and winning countless duels to keep Cottesmore at bay. His composure on the ball and leadership at the back were crucial in ensuring Rangers remained solid despite late pressure. King’s defensive presence provided the foundation for the team’s attacking play, making him a worthy recipient of the award.
Goals:
Yankuba Rumpuwarch
Raijaun Morris-Laing
Charles Patterson
Oliver Elie
Kyron Stabana
Assists:
Raijaun Morris-Laing (2)
