• Wanderers footballers handed lesson in capital

Wanderers footballers handed lesson in capital

The gap between the top teams in the Central League and Federation League football competitions is huge.

The top Federation League side, Havelock North Wanderers, learnt the hard way when beaten 5-0 by Central League leaders Miramar Rangers in today's third round Chatham Cup clash at David Farrington Park in the capital. The Rangers led 2-0 at halftime and scored two goals during the final five minutes.

"There were periods when we played really well and while we were competitive in patches there were also periods when we found it difficult to cope with the speed of the game," Wanderers head coach Chris Greatholder explained.

"At the same time, we were proud that we gave a decent account of ourselves."

Sixteen-year-old keeper Thomas Hooper and 16-year-old right-back Jack Albertini had memorable moments in the toughest outing of their respective football careers.

Wanderers Golden Boot leader Bjorn Christensen (pictured above) who was tireless throughout the match had an outstanding attempt saved by the keeper. Fellow foreward Dakota Lucas also had a huge work rate.

Wanderers have an away assignment against their nearest rivals in the Federation League, Gisborne, on Sunday. Should Wanderers win it will be a major boost in their quest to gain promotion to next year's Central League.