Mitchell Rangers travelled to Bundoora to face La Trobe University in round two of the Men’s State League Five North competition but went down three-nil in a difficult contest.
With La Trobe one of the division’s undefeated clubs so far this season, the Rangers put in a valiant effort to minimise damage to sit on one tie and one loss from two rounds.
Coach Stuart Clothier said there were still positives to be taken and looked forward to a reinvigorated lineup in the coming weeks.
“A tough affair against physical opposition, some great chances being made and always some positives to be taken away, on to next week with some of our injured players coming back,” he said.
The Rangers’ reserves endured a much closer match in their one-nil defeat, the competitive affair spearheaded by an impressive work rate from striker William Chilvers.
Defensive young gun Thomas Repic also enjoyed a standout game with multiple intercepts, while Anthony Jones’ consistent all-game effort culminated in a promising but unsuccessful chance on goal.
Coach Jason Gatt said it was an unfortunate result with some missed chances but praised the team’s consistency.
Seniors and reserves will be at home in Broadford this Saturday as they host Doreen United, with matches getting underway at 3pm and 5pm respectively.
The Rangers’ junior teams and senior women also played in friendlies at the weekend in the lead-up to their respective seasons getting underway.
There were multiple close-fought games for all junior teams, while the women endured an intense and competitive home game against Whittlesea Ranges that ended in a nail-biting three-four defeat.
