RANGERS entertained Bilbrook on Saturday in the West Midlands League division two, a side they had beaten 4-2 on the opening day of the season.

MALVERN RANGERS 1, BILBROOK 2

The disappointing run of results continued with this defeat, which has seen the side lose four of the last seven league fixtures and now makes the task of promotion seem a distant dream.

Bilbrook opened the scoring after 22 minutes when, following a right-sided attack, centre-forward Graham Shaw did well and scored inside the far-post past keeper Marc Wright.

Just two minutes later, Sam Black had a good chance which keeper Nick Collins parried out to Mark Taylor who shot over the bar.

On 28 minutes, Rangers were awarded a free-kick virtually on the goal line about six yards to the right which Mark Taylor took to the far-post where Mark White hit a sweet left footed volley which was cleared off the line.

A superb pass by Mark Tipton after 40 minutes saw Sam Black hit an excellent shot against the cross-bar.

Within two minutes of the resumption, Rob Cullen played Sam Black clear in on goal but his effort was disallowed for offside.

Two minutes later Ben Jevons struck the crossbar with a good shot.

After only eight minutes of the second-half, Rob Cullen was sent clear one-on-one with keeper Collins but sliced his shot wide. Six minutes later Mark Taylor shot over the bar when well placed.

Bilbrook increased their advantage on 22 minutes when Rob Durnell struck a free-kick from just outside the area through the wall and into the corner.

With some 15 minutes remaining, Rangers thought they had reduced the arrears following a goalmouth scramble but a free-kick was awarded for a foul on the keeper.

Rangers did eventually score following a strong run and shot by Sam Black.

Rangers had opportunities to salvage something from the game before the end but it wasn't to be.

Man-of-the-match was Neil Bond.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Rangers, sponsored by the Cross Keys, travel to play Wednesfield Reserves in a West Midlands League division two fixture, kick-off 2.45pm, meet at Brooklyn Motors at 12.30pm or Oak Apple at 12.45pm.