RANGERS travelled to Lower Moor on Saturday instead of Bishampton's Harvington based ground for this Worcester League Premier Division match because of both the foot and mouth problem and now cricket taking priority.

BISHAMPTON 0, MALVERN RANGERS 3

Rangers had the advantage of quite a strong wind in the first half but were unable to take full advantage as the home side competed strongly in midfield.

It was not until 25 minutes into the half that the home goal was seriously threatened, when firstly Rob Perrins saw a long range shot go narrowly wide and then an excellent left-sided cross by Chris Davis saw Dave Tainton with a free header but he headed over the bar.

However on 28 minutes Rangers took the lead, a long kick by young keeper Ian Hill saw Rob Perrins clear, he closed in on goal only to be foiled by home keeper Mark Owens, but he retrieved the ball, crossed into the middle for Dave Tainton to head home from close range for his first goal of the season in only his second start

Five minutes later, left back Chris Postans carried the ball to the edge of the penalty area before driving narrowly wide of the far post but just before half time Rangers scored a vital second goal. Chris Davis gained possession just inside the Bishampton half, swung his trusty right foot and the ball landed up in the roof of the net over keeper Owen's despairing hands. Davis' celebration was something special!

At the start of the second half Bishampton tried to use the wind to their advantage and keeper Ian Hill made a brave and important block save after five minutes. For the opening ten minutes or so the home side pressed hard to reduce the arrears forcing a number of fruitless corners but by and large Rangers reduced them to long range shooting and coped reasonably comfortably.

On the hour Rangers increased their advantage, a long ball forward to Dave Tainton was passed to Rob Perrins who curled an excellent shot into the far roof of the net. Ten minutes later Marc Kitchener took a right wing corner, Dave Tainton headed the ball back across the face of the goal where Chris Davis headed home but was ruled offside.

Rangers played out the remainder of the game reasonably comfortably but within the final ten minutes Bishampton had two players sent off for believed foul and abusive language.

Man of the Match was Chris Davis.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Rangers, sponsored by the Three Horseshoes, visit Lower Howsell to play local rivals Malvern Radar, kick off 3pm, players to meet at the ground 2.15pm.