Rangers set up cup quarter-final against Johnville
First Div. Cup: Rangers 4 Grannagh 1
Rampant Tramore Rangers made light work of Grannagh United in Saturday's (12/5/12) First Division Cup second-round tie at The Orchard.
The writing was on the wall for the visitors merely a minute in when one of Rangers' players of the season, Alan Harrington (above), flicked home from a corner at the far post.
Eoin Purcell made it two with a beautiful outside-of-the-foot finish into the top corner from just inside the box, before the he added another, all inside the opening half-hour, when James Legg fired a cross-shot into his path and Purt's finish was unerring.
His cousin Daithí Purcell was taken down in the area in the second half and Simon Power stepped up to score his third penalty in as many games, stitching the ball into the upper rigging to make it 19 goals for the season; one ahead of Eoin (37 between them to date is some tally).
Grannagh grabbed a consolation five minutes before the final whistle as Rangers advanced to an away quarter-final meeting with Johnville, who of course won last Sunday's title play-off with Abbeyside 4-1, and comfortably beat Carrick 3-0 in St Martin's Park in the cup on Saturday.
Rampant Tramore Rangers made light work of Grannagh United in Saturday's (12/5/12) First Division Cup second-round tie at The Orchard.
The writing was on the wall for the visitors merely a minute in when one of Rangers' players of the season, Alan Harrington (above), flicked home from a corner at the far post.
Eoin Purcell made it two with a beautiful outside-of-the-foot finish into the top corner from just inside the box, before the he added another, all inside the opening half-hour, when James Legg fired a cross-shot into his path and Purt's finish was unerring.
His cousin Daithí Purcell was taken down in the area in the second half and Simon Power stepped up to score his third penalty in as many games, stitching the ball into the upper rigging to make it 19 goals for the season; one ahead of Eoin (37 between them to date is some tally).
Grannagh grabbed a consolation five minutes before the final whistle as Rangers advanced to an away quarter-final meeting with Johnville, who of course won last Sunday's title play-off with Abbeyside 4-1, and comfortably beat Carrick 3-0 in St Martin's Park in the cup on Saturday.
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Infirmary Cup travesty Despite a super performance, Tramore Rangers’ second division double dream ended away to St Joseph’s on Tuesday night, May 8. Though the 2B champions lost 2-1 (being two down at the break after a breakaway goal, then an unmentionable mistake) we did everything bar score in the second half as the home side somehow hung on. Johnny Harris scored from a penalty, while we also hit the bar post and might have had another spot-kick. As captain Eoin Farrell said on behalf of the players, well done to management duo Mark Dunphy and Derek Farrell on the effort they’ve put in this season, resulting in the title. On this display the step up won’t be a problem next season. Tom Flynn saves the day A week after receiving the 2B shield, Rangers beat MV Celtic 7-6 on penalties in the Second Division Cup at home on Saturday, April 28. There was little to separate the sides on a windy Saturday at The Orchard and it was no surprise that the final score was 0-0, though Thomas Brett, after being taken down in the box, had a penalty saved with seven minutes remaining; justice, perhaps, after the visitors were earlier denied a stonewall spot-kick.In the shoot-out, hero keeper Tom Flynn saved Mullinavat’s first two efforts while we converted both of ours. But after Mark McCarthy missed the third, and Niall Reville another, they were back in it, though we always had our noses in front. Mikey Power, Noel O’Neill, Mark O’Byrne, Niall Jackman, Johnny Harris, Eamonn Murphy and Brettso were the successful Rangers takers. We will be away to either Crusaders or St Josephs in the quarter-finals. |
FIRSTS BOUNCE BACK
After the crushing disappointment of their defeat by Abbeyside in the final game of the league campaign, Rangers showed great resolve in comfortably disposing of De La Salle 5-2 in the First Division Cup on Saturday, May 5. A Simon Power hat-trick, including a penalty, took his tally for the season to 18, with the other goals coming from Gary Morrissey and Chris Kirk direct from a corner. |
Umbro Division 1A League
Goalscorer Gary Morrissey (centre) celebrates with team-mates after his winner away to Tramore.
Gary's deadly deadball wins it
Rangers edge derby but all eyes fixed on Abbeyside
Tramore 0 Tramore Rangers 1
A deadly Gary Morrissey deadball after eight minutes proved just about enough to give Rangers all three points against local rivals AFC in Sunday’s (March 25) keenly-contested Division 1A derby at Graun Park – and keeps the winners joint-top of the table with Abbeyside, who beat Southend by the odd goal in three at home.
The co-leaders (who were due to meet the following weekend before all games were called off due to the sad passing of Gene Roche), are now locked on 33 points. Johnville are also in the promotion hunt, after beating Villa 3-2 away to remain two points in arrears.
The decisive moment arrived after Paul Burns took down Rangers midfielder Alan Harrington just outside the box. ‘Mossy’ stood over the free-kick and duly flashed a brilliant 20-yard shot past Tramore goalkeeper Robbie Ridgard for his sixth league goal of the campaign.
The visitors were marginally the better side at that stage and Ridgard was forced into action entering the second quarter as a right-wing cross from the impressive Chris Flynn sought out the lurking Simon Power.
Tramore gradually got a foothold but Rangers weren’t really troubled in the final third. Ten minutes before the break Flynn fed Rangers 14-goal striker Eoin Purcell but his strike went narrowly wide of the left upright.
The improving home side nearly leveled matters on 38 minutes when Gary Hunt played a long ball to Dean Noblett, who raced into the penalty area but, with Killian Burns advancing, he fired his finish agonisingly wide of the far post.
PRESSURE
Tramore emerged for the second half in determined mode and bossed much of the subsequent 45. An Eoin Nolan free-kick after man-of-the-match Mark Hannigan fouled Noblett found its way to Noblett, but the tall attacker’s close-range header was dealt with by teenager Burns.
With Simon Keane equally imperious alongside Hannigan in the centre of defence, Rangers soaked up plenty more Tramore pressure and had a chance to make the spoils safe with 17 minutes remaining.
Flynn set off down the right wing and, after knocking the ball around Adam Dunne, he pulled the ball back superbly to Simon Power who, seeking to keep his shot low, struck if off covering defender Ken O’Shea.
After holding out to clinch an invaluable win, Rangers’ sights are now firmly on this weekend’s aspirants Abbeyside. Like Rangers, the team managed by Waterford United striker Willie John Kiely, who won the 1B title last season, have never been in the Premier League. If they were to draw, and Johnville beat porous Kilmacthomas at Alaska Park, it’ll be a three-way tie at the top.
Though delighted with this result, Rangers manager Joe Williams will know, however, that, with three games remaining, Rangers have their destiny in their own hands.
Tramore AFC: Robbie Ridgard, Eoin Nolan, Adam Dunne, Stephen O’Brien, Ken O’Shea, Conor McGough, Gary Hunt, Paul Burns, Dean Noblett, William Cullinane, Zach Mulcahy; substitutes used: Stephen Coffey for Mulcahy (61 minutes), Damien Cashin for Noblett (78).
Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, David Jacob, Eamon Murphy, Simon Keane, Mark Hannigan, Alan Harrington, Chris Flynn, Gary Morrissey, Simon Power, Eoin Purcell, Daithi Purcell; substitutes used: Stephen Sawyer for Murphy (16 mins), Mickey Power for Daithi Purcell (67).
Referee: Anthony Walsh.
Rangers edge derby but all eyes fixed on Abbeyside
Tramore 0 Tramore Rangers 1
A deadly Gary Morrissey deadball after eight minutes proved just about enough to give Rangers all three points against local rivals AFC in Sunday’s (March 25) keenly-contested Division 1A derby at Graun Park – and keeps the winners joint-top of the table with Abbeyside, who beat Southend by the odd goal in three at home.
The co-leaders (who were due to meet the following weekend before all games were called off due to the sad passing of Gene Roche), are now locked on 33 points. Johnville are also in the promotion hunt, after beating Villa 3-2 away to remain two points in arrears.
The decisive moment arrived after Paul Burns took down Rangers midfielder Alan Harrington just outside the box. ‘Mossy’ stood over the free-kick and duly flashed a brilliant 20-yard shot past Tramore goalkeeper Robbie Ridgard for his sixth league goal of the campaign.
The visitors were marginally the better side at that stage and Ridgard was forced into action entering the second quarter as a right-wing cross from the impressive Chris Flynn sought out the lurking Simon Power.
Tramore gradually got a foothold but Rangers weren’t really troubled in the final third. Ten minutes before the break Flynn fed Rangers 14-goal striker Eoin Purcell but his strike went narrowly wide of the left upright.
The improving home side nearly leveled matters on 38 minutes when Gary Hunt played a long ball to Dean Noblett, who raced into the penalty area but, with Killian Burns advancing, he fired his finish agonisingly wide of the far post.
PRESSURE
Tramore emerged for the second half in determined mode and bossed much of the subsequent 45. An Eoin Nolan free-kick after man-of-the-match Mark Hannigan fouled Noblett found its way to Noblett, but the tall attacker’s close-range header was dealt with by teenager Burns.
With Simon Keane equally imperious alongside Hannigan in the centre of defence, Rangers soaked up plenty more Tramore pressure and had a chance to make the spoils safe with 17 minutes remaining.
Flynn set off down the right wing and, after knocking the ball around Adam Dunne, he pulled the ball back superbly to Simon Power who, seeking to keep his shot low, struck if off covering defender Ken O’Shea.
After holding out to clinch an invaluable win, Rangers’ sights are now firmly on this weekend’s aspirants Abbeyside. Like Rangers, the team managed by Waterford United striker Willie John Kiely, who won the 1B title last season, have never been in the Premier League. If they were to draw, and Johnville beat porous Kilmacthomas at Alaska Park, it’ll be a three-way tie at the top.
Though delighted with this result, Rangers manager Joe Williams will know, however, that, with three games remaining, Rangers have their destiny in their own hands.
Tramore AFC: Robbie Ridgard, Eoin Nolan, Adam Dunne, Stephen O’Brien, Ken O’Shea, Conor McGough, Gary Hunt, Paul Burns, Dean Noblett, William Cullinane, Zach Mulcahy; substitutes used: Stephen Coffey for Mulcahy (61 minutes), Damien Cashin for Noblett (78).
Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, David Jacob, Eamon Murphy, Simon Keane, Mark Hannigan, Alan Harrington, Chris Flynn, Gary Morrissey, Simon Power, Eoin Purcell, Daithi Purcell; substitutes used: Stephen Sawyer for Murphy (16 mins), Mickey Power for Daithi Purcell (67).
Referee: Anthony Walsh.
League leaders Rangers denied by late equaliser
In the wars: Rangers' defender Gary Whelan
Umbro Division 1A
St Joseph's 1 Tramore Rangers 1
Matt Keane
Table-toppers Tramore Rangers remain six points clear of St Joseph's in Division 1A following this tough encounter which was played at a rain-swept Williamstown on Saturday, January 28.
The men from The Orchard men are five points clear of second-placed Abbeyside and they are without doubt the team to catch as the race for promotion to the Premier League reaches the business end.
Gary Morrissey put Rangers on front after an hour and it looked as if that goal would be enough to stretch their lead at the top but St Joseph's refused to throw in the towel and they grabbed an equaliser with five minutes remaining courtesy of an excellent effort from Ian Galgey.
On the overall run of play a share of the spoils was perhaps a fair result and although they will be disappointed not to have held on for the victory, Tramore Rangers will be happy enough with the point because the Saints have been their bogey team in recent seasons.
The home side went close after three minutes when Cian Chester squared the ball to Ian Galgey but he dragged his shot across the Rangers goal. Cian Chester was involved once again on 17 minutes, this time rising high to meet a right-wing cross from fullback Ger Quinlan but Killian Burns held the ball under his crossbar.
The same two players combined on 31 minutes but this time Chester was off target with his first time shot. As the weather deteriorated the play became rather sloppy, but blame could not be placed on the players due to the wind and rain.
Tramore Rangers went for the jugular when the second period got underway and when Chris Flynn played in Eoin Purcell a goal looked on but Billy Ryan got in a timely tackle to prevent the opening goal of the game.
Pressure pays off
Rangers fullback David Jacob clears his lines
The Rangers' pressure paid of on the hour mark, however. Cathal Duffy released the ball to Simon Keane who in turn released Gary Morrissey and the visiting No 8 rounded the St Joseph's goalkeeper Ross Galvin and placed the ball into an empty net.
Galvin was a late replacement between the St Joseph's posts because regular netminder Ruari Sheridan broke his finger in the pre-match warm-up. The home side came on strong during the remainder of the contest and their big physical back four came forward at every opportunity in an attempt to grab an equaliser but the Tramore Rangers defence held firm until five minutes remaining when they were unhinged by the Saints.
David Flynn and Clive Power combined out on the right and when Power picked out Ian Galgey, the St Joseph's striker gave Killian Burns no chance with a delightful volley from just inside the penalty area. Two minutes later Cathal Duffy almost regained the lead for Rangers but after taking a pass from Eoin Purcell he was just off-target with a right-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area.
St Joseph's: Ross Galvin, Stephen Roche, Ger Quinlan, Jay Ryan, Billy Ryan, Noel Flynn, Michael Grant, James Manning, Cian Chester, Ian Galgey, Ritchie Burke. Subs. David Flynn for Manning (42 mins), Clive Power for Grant (56), Brian Power for Burke (73).
Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, David Jacob, Chris Kirk, Simon Keane, Gary Whelan, Alan Harringhton, Chris Flynn, Gary Morrissey, Eoin Purcell, Mark Hannigan, James Legg. Subs: Cathal Duffy for Jacob (52 mins), Stephen Sawyer for Harringhton (73).
Referee: Noel Purcell.
Photos by Noel Browne
Galvin was a late replacement between the St Joseph's posts because regular netminder Ruari Sheridan broke his finger in the pre-match warm-up. The home side came on strong during the remainder of the contest and their big physical back four came forward at every opportunity in an attempt to grab an equaliser but the Tramore Rangers defence held firm until five minutes remaining when they were unhinged by the Saints.
David Flynn and Clive Power combined out on the right and when Power picked out Ian Galgey, the St Joseph's striker gave Killian Burns no chance with a delightful volley from just inside the penalty area. Two minutes later Cathal Duffy almost regained the lead for Rangers but after taking a pass from Eoin Purcell he was just off-target with a right-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area.
St Joseph's: Ross Galvin, Stephen Roche, Ger Quinlan, Jay Ryan, Billy Ryan, Noel Flynn, Michael Grant, James Manning, Cian Chester, Ian Galgey, Ritchie Burke. Subs. David Flynn for Manning (42 mins), Clive Power for Grant (56), Brian Power for Burke (73).
Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, David Jacob, Chris Kirk, Simon Keane, Gary Whelan, Alan Harringhton, Chris Flynn, Gary Morrissey, Eoin Purcell, Mark Hannigan, James Legg. Subs: Cathal Duffy for Jacob (52 mins), Stephen Sawyer for Harringhton (73).
Referee: Noel Purcell.
Photos by Noel Browne
THE ONE-A GO THREE POINTS CLEAR
Brettso puts “nightmare year” behind him
Division 2B
Mooncoin 0 Rangers 3 Club photographer Thomas Brett (pictured) marked his first return to action in 12 months in Owen Hargreaves fashion with the third in a 3-0 victory away to Mooncoin on Saturday afternoon (Sept 24). The in-form Niall Jackman got the first in the opening half, finishing well from an acute angle at the back post. Just after the change of ends Alan Brennan popped up at the far stick to scramble the ball home to make it 2-0. Brettso added the final flourish after Michael O'Brien was played through and the versatile Annestown man squared the ball to the owner of the most lamented ankle since Marco van Basten was forced to retire at 28. "It's been a nightmare year to be honest," said the single-goal spearhead, who laughed off suggestions he's made more appearances on the pitch than at committee meetings in 2011 as "mere mean-spirited innuendo." |
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In Division 1A, Tramore Rangers kept their own promotion hopes alive and kicking with a gutsy 2-1 victory at home versus Villa on Saturday, March 3, bouncing back from a bad 4-2 home defeat by Southend the previous weekend.
With defender Gary Whelan dismissed for a second yellow inside the fi rst quarter and his side then going a goal down ten minutes before the break, the situation at The Orchard looked bleak.
However, top-scorer Eoin Purcell (now on 14 for the season) equalised ten minutes after the change of ends, and David Jacob grabbed what proved to be the winner a quarter of an hour later. Rangers were reduced to nine men
towards the fi nish when James Legg saw the line. With Abbeyside beating St Joseph’s 2-1 in town, it was vital Rangers collected full points.
Southend United are in third position on 29 points following their 3-0 win against Tramore on Sunday, while Johnville moved above St Joseph’s into 4th position (on 25 points, but with a game in hand on the teams in front of them) by beating Grannagh. Rangers, who play Tramore away on March 25th, still have to play Abbeyside and Southend also have to meet Willie John Kiely’s men and also Johnville. It’s anyone’s title.
The Tramore Rangers side who drew 1-1 with St Joseph's away on January 28 last to stay five points clear at the top of the Division 1A table. Photo by Noel Browne (Click for more)
Rangers win... but not a day for the faint-hearted!
Rangers relief: Gary Morrissey jumps on Simon Power after he scored their side's fifth and clinching goal, with James Legg about to join in the celebrations. Photos by Noel Browne
Tramore Rangers players and management celebrate after clinching the Division 2B title with a win away to Tycor on Saturday, March 3. Pic: Neil McDonald
Division 2B title wrapped up by Dunph & Del's boys
Off-colour Rangers frustrated in AbbeysideThomas Brett scored Rangers goal in a 1-1 draw away to third-placed Abbeyside in Division 2B on Saturday, January 7. Having failed to capitalise on early pressure the game was a scoreless stalemate at half-time. About 15 minutes into the second period Rangers excellent left-full Eamon Murphy went on a great run down the wing and his delivery was contested by Brettso and the opposition centre-half and keeper, with the Rangers striker looking to have got the decisive touch as the ball looped into the net. However, just four minutes later Abbeyside equalised when a 25-yard screamer flew into the top corner. We'd the best of the rest of the action and felt hard done-by when Drew Keating thought he'd scored in injury time only for the goal to be scrubbed out for a dubious offside. Best for a bug-ridden Rangers - who remain top of the table, two points ahead of Hibs - included the excellent Mick O'Brien alongside Tommy up front (and Ali, right). We play Villa at home next Saturday. |
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Three more points on the road
Div 2B: Piltown 0 Tramore Rangers 2
Another great result on Saturday (Feb 18) put us 8 points clear at the top (overnight at least), with second-placed Hibs playing the first of their 2 games in hand away to Carrick in the morning.
With Niall Farrell missing an early penalty, Rangers' goals came from from Johnny Harris, pictured, with a cross that ended up as a shot - and in the net - in the first half, and Niall Reville in the second; Rev rounding the keeper after being played in by Thomas Brett. Great stuff again lads.
In a friendly at The Orchard our Division 1A side also beat Piltown, with goals from player-of-the-year-elect Eoin Purcell and Simon Keane.
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Division 1A League:
Tramore Rangers 5 Grannagh 3 The tension will be palpable at what’s sure to be a packed ‘Orchard’ this Sunday morning (April 22) as Tramore Rangers seek to achieve automatic promotion to the Waterford Premier League for the first time in their 40-year history. However, Abbeyside arrive with title aspirations of their own. Last season’s 1B champions need a win to force a play-off with Johnville, who have finished their campaign on a total of 40 points after coming from behind on two occasions to defeat Southend in Ballybeg last Sunday thanks to a 95th-minute winner. Abbeyside, who were level on points with Rangers going into last weekend’s games, were held to a 2-2 draw by the Villa in Connors Park, leaving Willie John Kiely’s side on 37 points, two behind Rangers’ tally. If Rangers and Abbeyside draw on Sunday, Rangers would play Johnville in a promotion play-off. The seasiders got off to a dream start against Grannagh last Sunday, going two up inside six minutes. Simon Power was fouled just outside the area in the second minute. Stephen |
Sawyer fired in a free kick and when goalkeeper Gavin Power could only parry Mark Hannigan pounced to tuck the ball into the net.
The hosts increased their lead in fine style. Tigerish midfielder Alan Harrington played a delightful ball forward to James Legg who raced into the penalty area before crashing a shot past the advancing Power. Rangers were in full flow at this stage and made it 3-0 on 21 minutes. Eoin Purcell split the Grannagh defence with a delightful ball and the similarly in-form Gary Morrissey finished superbly.Top scorer Purcell notched another on the half-hour. Harrington and Simon Power combined sweetly in the left channel and when Power deftly laid into Purcell’s path the striker stroked a gorgeous finish into the top corner. However, having come from three down to beat Southend 4-3 the previous week, Grannagh showed they’re a second-half team and a goal from Colin Murphy (50 minutes) kick-started their fightback. Then when Murphy got to the ball marginally ahead of Rangers keeper Killian Burns referee John Purcell pointed to the penalty spot and showed Burns a straight red card. |
Stephen Sawyer stepped between the posts and was swiftly sent the wrong way by Ian Walsh’s spot-kick.
Rangers’ nerves were jangling now and Grannagh scored again on 64 minutes through Robbie Walsh at the far post after a lovely move down the right. With an anxious ear being kept on scorelines elsewhere, gradually the home side got a grip, and sealed the result with a fifth goal with 15 minutes remaining. Eoin Purcell did brilliantly down the right before sending the ball across a crowded goalmouth and Simon Power forced the ball home to spread relief through the Rangers ranks. Though Murphy rattled the victors’ bar on 81 minutes the ‘All Blacks’ saw the game out. However, Rangers must now plan for the biggest game in their history without teenage goalie Burns. The day of reckoning is nigh. Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, Stephen O’Gorman, Chris Kirk, Simon Power, Mark Hanrahan, Alan Harrington, James Legg, Gary Morrissey, Simon Power, Eoin Purcell, Stephen Sawyer. Subs: Daithi Purcell for Legg (80 mins), Cathal Duffy for Power (88). |
Rangers win by the 'odd' goal in seven
Simon Power: superb second
Division 1A: Rangers 4 Johnville 3
Our First Division squad made it a one hundred percent start to the season thanks to a 4-3 win against Johnville at 'The Orchard' - which has rarely looked better - on Friday evening (Aug 26).
We went one up after five minutes when a long clearance from goalkeeper KIllian Burns was back-headed over the visiting keeper by one of his own players.
However, Johnville responded well to that setback and put together some neat passages of play as Rangers tended to stand off.
They deservedly drew level after 15 minutes when a powerful long-range free kick was parried by Killian, who couldn't keep out the follow-up.
Having gained the initiative, Johnville went ahead on 35 minutes from the penalty spot, though Rangers spurned a number of gilt-edged chances (Simon Keane, Chris Flynn, Gary Morrissey) either side of that award.
But just two minutes after the change of ends we equalised. Eoin Purcell got in down the right and pulled the ball back to Simon Power and the in-form striker, who led the line brilliantly throughout, turned on the proverbial six-pence before stroking a superb left-footed shot from 15 yards into the bottom corner.
Rangers maintained their new-found momentum, though it took a great close-range save from Killian low to his left to prevent Johnville from going back in front 11 minutes into the half.
Six minutes later, after two decent penalty shouts by Rangers were waved away, the impressive Eoin Purcell took a pass inside the box and, after a quick feint, he clipped a lovely left-foot finish off the keeper's fingertips into the far top corner to make it 3-2 and keep pace with Sanjay in the scoring stakes.
Inside sixty seconds we found ourselves two goals to the good: a scuffed effort from Stephen Sawyer (who's claiming it) deflected inside the upright.
However, with five minutes or so remaining a looped header beat Killian under his crossbar, but it wasn't enough to deny a Rangers side, who look to have plenty of strength in depth, a victory their spirited second-half display deserved.
Among Rangers' other notable performers were, again, Alan Harrington, and captain Chris Kirk.
However, lest anyone get ahead of themselves, next Saturday we face the customary tough trip to Alaska Park to play Kilmac'.
Our First Division squad made it a one hundred percent start to the season thanks to a 4-3 win against Johnville at 'The Orchard' - which has rarely looked better - on Friday evening (Aug 26).
We went one up after five minutes when a long clearance from goalkeeper KIllian Burns was back-headed over the visiting keeper by one of his own players.
However, Johnville responded well to that setback and put together some neat passages of play as Rangers tended to stand off.
They deservedly drew level after 15 minutes when a powerful long-range free kick was parried by Killian, who couldn't keep out the follow-up.
Having gained the initiative, Johnville went ahead on 35 minutes from the penalty spot, though Rangers spurned a number of gilt-edged chances (Simon Keane, Chris Flynn, Gary Morrissey) either side of that award.
But just two minutes after the change of ends we equalised. Eoin Purcell got in down the right and pulled the ball back to Simon Power and the in-form striker, who led the line brilliantly throughout, turned on the proverbial six-pence before stroking a superb left-footed shot from 15 yards into the bottom corner.
Rangers maintained their new-found momentum, though it took a great close-range save from Killian low to his left to prevent Johnville from going back in front 11 minutes into the half.
Six minutes later, after two decent penalty shouts by Rangers were waved away, the impressive Eoin Purcell took a pass inside the box and, after a quick feint, he clipped a lovely left-foot finish off the keeper's fingertips into the far top corner to make it 3-2 and keep pace with Sanjay in the scoring stakes.
Inside sixty seconds we found ourselves two goals to the good: a scuffed effort from Stephen Sawyer (who's claiming it) deflected inside the upright.
However, with five minutes or so remaining a looped header beat Killian under his crossbar, but it wasn't enough to deny a Rangers side, who look to have plenty of strength in depth, a victory their spirited second-half display deserved.
Among Rangers' other notable performers were, again, Alan Harrington, and captain Chris Kirk.
However, lest anyone get ahead of themselves, next Saturday we face the customary tough trip to Alaska Park to play Kilmac'.
Stephen O'Gorman (above left) put in a full shift despite only arriving home from a three-week honeymoon the day before. Also just back from the Orient was Alan Harrington and it was as if he'd never been away. (Right) Delighted Division 1A boss Joe Williams leaves the line in Abbeyside.
Rangers v Johnville (Div 1A: 27/8/11) - Photos by Thomas Brett
TWO TEAMS GO TOP
 Sawyer: winner
Division 1A: Southend 0 Rangers 1
Great attitude by our Division 1A side was rewarded with three points away to Southend United on Sunday morning (Dec 11) to put us back on top of the table. A stunning Stephen Sawyer strike just after half-time did the business in Ballybeg. The winger beat a succession of men down the channel before unleashing a corker of a left-foot finish that the home 'keeper could only watch and admire. Before that Gary Morrissey struck the crossbar in the first half and centre-half Gary Whelan went close with a header minutes later. After going ahead the hardworking front two of Simon Power and the excellent Eoin Purcell both had chances to extend our lead - the latter after a great set-up by Stephen O'Gorman, who would later produced a terrific goal-line clearance at the other end as Southend, who now lie third, applied pressure in the closing stages. A great result, then, borne of a totally determined team performance, with Alan Harrington and Gary Morrissey foraging firelessly in midfield, strongly aided by Sawyer (replaced late on by James Legg) and Chris Flynn out wide, with the backline of Simon Keane, Gary Whelan, Sog, captain Chris Kirk and keeper Killian Burns all putting in fine shifts too. We're now two points ahead of Abbeyside, who have two games in hand. We play them away next Sunday in what's obviously a critical Christmas clash. |
Seconds edge it at home
 Niall Jackman: winner
Plaudits also to Rangers' Division 2B team - managed by Mark Dunphy and Derek Farrell - who went top of the table following an edgy but grittily determined 1-0 home win over Rathgormack on Saturday afternoon (Dec 10).
After having much the better of the opening half, the all-important goal came ten minutes into the second. Thomas Brett did well out on the right wing before playing in his strike partner Drew Keating, who squared the ball to Niall Jackman at the far post to find the net. Rathgormack came more into it after that and gave us a few scares before the finish. An audibly up-for-it Mark O'Byrne produced a brilliant last-gasp block with his trusty pelvic girdle to prevent a certain equaliser and he, Noel O'Neill and the ever-commanding Eoin Farrell did most to earn another vital three points in what was our last game of 2011. Brettso, Drew, Niall Farrell and Mark McCarthy were also major contributors to the cause. The result sent us two points clear of Hibs, who play away to Villa on Tuesday, leaving us with a game in hand. |
SECONDS ON A ROLL
 Eoin Farrell: unstoppable
Tramore Rangers 4 Tycor 0
Rangers' free-scoring Division 2B team collected another 3 points against a physical Tycor side thanks to a terrific team display at The Orchard on Sunday, Nov 27. A match highlighted by Eoin Farrell's stunning free-kick opener saw us go three up by half-time, with his central defensive partner Noel O'Neill scoring the second from close range, and Niall Farrell netting direct from another corner. We remained well on top after the change of ends, though dependable 'keeper Brian Sullivan played a bit of volleyball with a stanchion before Drew Keating scored our fourth with a beautiful curling finish after great battling by midfield dynamo Mark McCarthy. Mick O'Brien went close to making it five before the finish after coming on for the impressive Thomas Brett. |
1A return to winning ways
 Eoin Purcell: class strike
SIMO MAKES IT ROUND DOZEN
On a miserable afternoon for football Rangers got back to winning ways with a 4-2 victory over a game Bolton side at The Orchard on Saturday, Nov 26. The visitors went one-nil up before Gary Morrissey found the net from a low-struck free-kick. Simon Power put us 2-1 up from a penalty after a handball in the box before half-time; then shortly after the turnaround the ever-threatening Eoin Purcell produced a cracking finish for our third. The pressurising Power scored a somewhat fortuitous second - and his 12th of the season - with his knee to make it 4-1, but the Kilbarry men reduced the deficit through an unlucky Chris Kirk OG. However, the game petered out somewhat as the wind and rain made it a hard for either side to kick on and there were no complaints when the final whistle sounded a smidgen early. |
2011-12 season
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Tramore Rangers 1 Tramore AFC 2
Having lost all three derby encounters last season, Tramore AFC made the short trip to The Orchard on Saturday (Nov 12, above) determined to straighten their recent record. The visitors, with former Waterford United striker Micheal Downey up front, look a more solid side this campaign, and went ahead after 15 minutes when a speculative dint over the top was headed past a hesitant Killian Burns. Rangers, looking rusty having been out of action since September 24, equalised on 40 minutes when Alan Harrington whipped in a super free kick from the left and Simon Power glanced home his 10th of the season. Just after the change of ends Chris Flynn headed a Tramore effort off the line, while ten minutes later Rangers substitute Stephen Sawyer, on for the injured Sanjay, went close with an acrobatic overhead effort at the far post. However, Tramore looked the more likely after that and with quarter-of-an-hour to go static defending at a corner allowed AFC to head a winner. They almost added a third with ten minutes remaining but KIllian made two great saves with his feet in quick succession. Best for Rangers were centre-half Gary Whelan, against his former club, and Alan Harrington who put in another trojan shift in midfield. Ultimately, there were few complaints. Rangers have to rediscover their A game, and quickly, with last year's impressive 1B winners Abbeyside awaiting away next Saturday. 
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Second Division
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Handy three points for Second Division
Div 2B: Rangers 5 Johnville 1
Our Division 2B team cruised to an easy 5-1 win at home to Johnville on Saturday (Aug 27). Goals from Mark McCarthy (2), Niall Jackman and Tom Flynn made it 4-0 at half-time, though the margin could have been a lot more. Mark O'Byrne scored in the second half, when we might have netted on three or four occasions, before the visitors "grabbed" a consolation (much to keeper Brian Sullivan's consternation) towards the finish.
Best for Rangers included Jacks, Mac, Eoin Farrell, Niall Farrell, Eamonn Murphy, and Colin Herbert.
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After six weeks' enforced hibernation, Rangers kept their promotion push going with a gutsy 2-1 win away to an all-hands-on-deck Abbeyside in Division 1A on Saturday (Jan 21).
Eoin Purcell (pictured) was the matchwinner, scoring twice in the first half - two lovely volleys on nine and 25 minutes. The homesters - who gave our Division 2B team a walkover - hit back before the break but, with both sides having their chances in the second period and each reduced to ten men (Simon Keane leaving the fray after a second yellow), we dug in to take a crucial three points. So, still top of the table then, three points ahead of Southend, who drew 0-0 with a rejuvenated Kilmac' - who we host next Saturday - at Alaska Park, and four ahead of Johnville, who've played a game less; they being on cup duty this weekend. |
 Eoin Purcell: 9 in 10 games
SECONDS' SLIGHT SLIP On Saturday, January 14 the Divsion 2Bs suffered a rare defeat, going down to Villa 1-0 at The Orchard as Rangers finished with nine men. Thankfully it's proved to be just a temporary blip. |
100% start Purt: brace
However, just to keep things interesting we conceded twice at the start of the second half: the first from a disputed penalty, the second after we looked for an offside.
However, Simon put us back in cruise control when he tucked away at the far post after a brilliant pass across the box from Purt, and Sanj completed his hat-trick when he steered a controlled left-foot volley into the top corner following a fine cross from the flank by James Legg. Gary Morrissey put extra gloss on the result in the closing minutes with a neat slot home after a well-worked one-two with Purt. So that’s fifteen goals and nine points from three games. Feet-on-the-ground time, but super stuff from Joe Williams' men. Firsts' Magnificent seven
 Simon Power: hat-trick and two assists
Div 1A:
Kilmac' 2 Rangers 7 Our Division 1A team enjoyed a scintillating 7-2 victory in sunny Alaska Park on Saturday, Sept 3. Simon Power and Eoin Purcell have formed a tremendous understanding up front and Kilmac' just couldn’t handle their movement and guile. Sanjay got the first with a delightful dink over the keeper on 20 minutes, swiftly followed by a lovely cross for Purt to glance in a header. Power then put his striker partner through for the third, which he finished unerringly, before Alan Harrington, who was terrific throughout in the centre of the park, scored a superb goal - winning the ball just outside the box before whacking a left-foot curler inside the far post. |
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MIKEY POWERS HOME THE WINNER!
Division 2B
Rangers 1 Carrick 0 Veteran Mikey Power reeled in the years with the winner at home against Carrick United on Sunday, Oct 16. When Drew Keating's penalty was saved (having had to kick the ball out of a spot-cum-hole) Coolnacappogue man Power flashed home the follow-up with his trusty left foot. (Mikey, 37, missed a penalty himself in the 2006 First Division Cup final against Kilmac' in Ozier Park, right, but seing as we also won on that occasion we won't bring it up; nor his age.) The lads, going really well this season under the management of Mark Dunphy and Derek Farrell, are away to Villa next Sunday morning. |
2Bs draw in rainy Rathgormack
Division 2B
Rathgormack 1 Tramore Rangers 1 Missing a few regulars, our Second Division side had to be happy with a point away to Rathgormack on a sopping wet first Saturday in October. On a treacherously wet surface which saw players from both sides struggle to stay on their feet, we went ahead through midfielder Mark McCarthy (right). We were well on top in the second half but conceded an equaliser from the penalty spot with 15 minutes to go. |
Couple of early December draws
Both Rangers outfits had to settle for 1-1 draws on Saturday, December 3.
It took a last-minute equaliser from Chris Flynn to earn the Division 1A team a point away to Johnville, while Mark McCarthy got the all-important equaliser for the 2B side. Flynn fired home his first goal for the club after a free-kick taken by keeper Killian Burns found its way to him on the far side a crowded penalty area and the right winger. Johnville had been reduced to 10 men early in the second half but Rangers struggled to create chances, having spurned a few gilt-edged opportunities early on. At The Orchard Mac was on hand to finish from close range after the keeper couldn't hold onto a Noel O'Neill header. A resilient Mooncoin had gone ahead in the first half after we conceded once again from the penalty spot: the third out of only five goals we've coughed up this campaign. |
Chris Flynn: scored the 1A's late equaliser - his first goal for Rangers
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BLACKS MAGIC AS BOTH TEAMS WIN
Eoin Purcell: 13 in 11 games
PURT’S PURPLE PATCH CRUSHES KILMAC'
Two great results for Tramore Rangers’ first and second division sides kept their respective title ambitions on course at home and away on Saturday afternoon (Jan 28).
Eoin Purcell was the undisputed star man, showing arch opportunism to score four times in a clinical 20-minute first-half spell in the 1As' 6-2 win against Kilmac’ at The Orchard.
James Legg, Alan Harrington and Gary Morrissey were terrific in midfield as we bamboozled the visitors with our one and two-touch passing, and Purt was coolness personified in bringing his season total to 13.
Five minutes into the second period Kilmac’ pulled one back but Daithi Purcell restored our advantage when he picked the ball up out on the left before advancing to fire a finish into the bottom corner for No5. A definite case of “Take it Out!”
Jamesy put a fine delivery over from the left for the sixth, with Chris Flynn coming in at the far post to find the net.
Another terrific three points by Joe Williams’ men, then, to consolidate pole position ahead of a crunch game (aren't they all) against St Josephs away next Saturday.
THREE FOR TABLE-TOPPING TWOS
The 2B team were also celebrating after a 3-1 away victory over Johnville.
Johnny Harris opened the scoring on 15 minutes when his speculative effort deceived the home keeper. We spurned some good chances after that, and Johnville equalised. It remained one apiece until a quarter-of-an-hour to go. Niall Jackman put in a lovely cross to which Drew Keating added a flick and Thomas Brett, who was terrific after coming on with 30 minutes to go, was in the right place to make it 2-1.
Having pretty much huffed and puffed to little effect until then, we looked a lot more comfortable after that and Niall Farrell sealed the win. Picking up a poor clearance, he laid the ball out wide to Drew who centred it towards Brettso whose clever dummy left Farley back in to calmly slot home.
With second-placed Hibs losing, the outfit managed by Mark Dunphy and Derek Farrell are now five points to the good at the summit, having played a game more. Four BIG ones to go.
Two great results for Tramore Rangers’ first and second division sides kept their respective title ambitions on course at home and away on Saturday afternoon (Jan 28).
Eoin Purcell was the undisputed star man, showing arch opportunism to score four times in a clinical 20-minute first-half spell in the 1As' 6-2 win against Kilmac’ at The Orchard.
James Legg, Alan Harrington and Gary Morrissey were terrific in midfield as we bamboozled the visitors with our one and two-touch passing, and Purt was coolness personified in bringing his season total to 13.
Five minutes into the second period Kilmac’ pulled one back but Daithi Purcell restored our advantage when he picked the ball up out on the left before advancing to fire a finish into the bottom corner for No5. A definite case of “Take it Out!”
Jamesy put a fine delivery over from the left for the sixth, with Chris Flynn coming in at the far post to find the net.
Another terrific three points by Joe Williams’ men, then, to consolidate pole position ahead of a crunch game (aren't they all) against St Josephs away next Saturday.
THREE FOR TABLE-TOPPING TWOS
The 2B team were also celebrating after a 3-1 away victory over Johnville.
Johnny Harris opened the scoring on 15 minutes when his speculative effort deceived the home keeper. We spurned some good chances after that, and Johnville equalised. It remained one apiece until a quarter-of-an-hour to go. Niall Jackman put in a lovely cross to which Drew Keating added a flick and Thomas Brett, who was terrific after coming on with 30 minutes to go, was in the right place to make it 2-1.
Having pretty much huffed and puffed to little effect until then, we looked a lot more comfortable after that and Niall Farrell sealed the win. Picking up a poor clearance, he laid the ball out wide to Drew who centred it towards Brettso whose clever dummy left Farley back in to calmly slot home.
With second-placed Hibs losing, the outfit managed by Mark Dunphy and Derek Farrell are now five points to the good at the summit, having played a game more. Four BIG ones to go.
Six-gun Rangers riding high
Stephen Sawyer is congratulated by Sanjay and Purt after his first-half screamer
Umbro Division 1A
Villa 1 Rangers 6
By Matt Keane
Tramore Rangers have gone clear at the top of Division 1A following this facile victory in Connors Park on Saturday afternoon. This was their fourth game of the campaign and they have scored an incredible 21 goals. They started the season by beating Grannagh 4-1 away and followed up that success by defeating Johnville 4-3 in a thriller at The Orchard and last time out hammered Kilmacthomas 7-2 at Alaska Park. This is a very strong, talented and extremely fit Rangers outfit and there is no doubt whatsoever that the Premier League is their target. There is not a weak link in their team, and they will take some catching if they continue to score so freely.
Straight from the opening whistle Rangers took the game to their hosts and went close after 3 minutes when Alan Harrington let fly from 15 yards but the Villa defender Wayne Robinson deflected the ball out at the expense of a corner kick. Cathal Duffy was the next Rangers player to try his luck but his well-struck shot went narrowly over the crossbar.
It was only a matter of time before the visitors scored and the goal arrived on 14 minutes. Stephen Sawyer sent over a cross from the right and when the ball broke to Simon Power he turned smartly inside the area and slotted home his seventh league goal of the season.
Stephen Murphy had Villa's first attempt on goal in the 21st minute but his left-footed strike went well wide. Rangers took total control after that and scored three goals within the space of six minutes. Stephen O'Gorman played a short free kick to Stephen Sawyer on 37 minutes and the left winger found the net with a blistering drive from the edge of the penalty area. Two minutes later Sawyer turned provider for Eoin Purcell who clipped the ball over the advancing Villa goalkeeper Cian McDonagh from 16 yards range.
On 43 minutes Kevin Kelly fouled Sawyer inside the box and Simon Power sent the Villa keeper the wrong way from the penalty spot.
Beyond doubt
Jason Cleere, a second-half substitute, went close with a header for the Villa not long after the change of ends but he had to look on as his attempt went inches wide. Rangers scored their fifth on 54 minutes. Simon Power found Gary Morrissey with a delightful pass and the latter coolly clipped the ball past the advancing Cian McDonagh.
Rangers made it six when Stephen Sawyer calmly slid the ball home the left side of the penalty area after rounding McDonagh who came racing off his line for some reason best known to himself.
Four minutes later Danny Sheridan scored from a penalty for the Villa after a shot from Tony O'Brien was adjudged to have been handled by O'Gorman, but it was merely a small consolation goal for the homesters, who were run ragged all afternoon.
Next up for the league leaders is a home game against St Joseph's on Saturday, always a keenly-contested fixture.
Villa: Cian McDonagh, Paul Mates, Danny Sheridan, Wayne Robinson, Paddy Fitzgerald, David McCaffrey, Kevin Kelly, Stephen Murphy, Jack Gaule, John Hale, Paddy Davis. Subs: Jason Cleere for Davis (H-T), Tony O'Brien for Murphy (62 mins), Adam Walsh for Hale (70).
Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, Stephen O'Gorman, Chris Kirk, Cathal Duffy, Gary Whelan, Alan Harrington, James Legg, Gary Morrissey, Simon Power, Eoin Purcell, Stephen Sawyer. Subs: Mark Hannigan for Harrington (64 mins), Daithi Purcell for Eoin Purcell (70), Chris Flynn for Sawyer (77).
Referee: Anthony Walsh.
Villa 1 Rangers 6
By Matt Keane
Tramore Rangers have gone clear at the top of Division 1A following this facile victory in Connors Park on Saturday afternoon. This was their fourth game of the campaign and they have scored an incredible 21 goals. They started the season by beating Grannagh 4-1 away and followed up that success by defeating Johnville 4-3 in a thriller at The Orchard and last time out hammered Kilmacthomas 7-2 at Alaska Park. This is a very strong, talented and extremely fit Rangers outfit and there is no doubt whatsoever that the Premier League is their target. There is not a weak link in their team, and they will take some catching if they continue to score so freely.
Straight from the opening whistle Rangers took the game to their hosts and went close after 3 minutes when Alan Harrington let fly from 15 yards but the Villa defender Wayne Robinson deflected the ball out at the expense of a corner kick. Cathal Duffy was the next Rangers player to try his luck but his well-struck shot went narrowly over the crossbar.
It was only a matter of time before the visitors scored and the goal arrived on 14 minutes. Stephen Sawyer sent over a cross from the right and when the ball broke to Simon Power he turned smartly inside the area and slotted home his seventh league goal of the season.
Stephen Murphy had Villa's first attempt on goal in the 21st minute but his left-footed strike went well wide. Rangers took total control after that and scored three goals within the space of six minutes. Stephen O'Gorman played a short free kick to Stephen Sawyer on 37 minutes and the left winger found the net with a blistering drive from the edge of the penalty area. Two minutes later Sawyer turned provider for Eoin Purcell who clipped the ball over the advancing Villa goalkeeper Cian McDonagh from 16 yards range.
On 43 minutes Kevin Kelly fouled Sawyer inside the box and Simon Power sent the Villa keeper the wrong way from the penalty spot.
Beyond doubt
Jason Cleere, a second-half substitute, went close with a header for the Villa not long after the change of ends but he had to look on as his attempt went inches wide. Rangers scored their fifth on 54 minutes. Simon Power found Gary Morrissey with a delightful pass and the latter coolly clipped the ball past the advancing Cian McDonagh.
Rangers made it six when Stephen Sawyer calmly slid the ball home the left side of the penalty area after rounding McDonagh who came racing off his line for some reason best known to himself.
Four minutes later Danny Sheridan scored from a penalty for the Villa after a shot from Tony O'Brien was adjudged to have been handled by O'Gorman, but it was merely a small consolation goal for the homesters, who were run ragged all afternoon.
Next up for the league leaders is a home game against St Joseph's on Saturday, always a keenly-contested fixture.
Villa: Cian McDonagh, Paul Mates, Danny Sheridan, Wayne Robinson, Paddy Fitzgerald, David McCaffrey, Kevin Kelly, Stephen Murphy, Jack Gaule, John Hale, Paddy Davis. Subs: Jason Cleere for Davis (H-T), Tony O'Brien for Murphy (62 mins), Adam Walsh for Hale (70).
Tramore Rangers: Killian Burns, Stephen O'Gorman, Chris Kirk, Cathal Duffy, Gary Whelan, Alan Harrington, James Legg, Gary Morrissey, Simon Power, Eoin Purcell, Stephen Sawyer. Subs: Mark Hannigan for Harrington (64 mins), Daithi Purcell for Eoin Purcell (70), Chris Flynn for Sawyer (77).
Referee: Anthony Walsh.
Pictures from Villa v Rangers Division 1A game , Sept 17
(with thanks to Photographer Noel Browne)
(with thanks to Photographer Noel Browne)
First team kick off with convincing win
Div 1A: Grannagh United 1 Rangers 4
We got our Division 1A campaign off to an encouraging start with a 4-1 victory away to Grannagh United on Friday (Aug 19). Eoin Purcell (right) scored twice, with fellow striker Simon Power also netting a brace, including a first-half penalty. After a fine all-round team performance that could have yielded more goals, manager Joe Williams' man-of-the-match was Alan Harrington for his non-stop work-rate. A somewhat new-look side also included centre-halves Simon Keane and Gary Whelan. Next Friday we host Johnville, who lost 4-2 at home against Southend in their opening fixture, having been 2-0 up after 20 minutes. |
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