Look back through the history of our First team - scores, scorers, match reports for the past 4 seasons can all be found here.

Season 2003/04 | Season 2004/05 | Season 2005/06 | Season 2006/07 | Season 2007/08

2007/08 Summary

Fixtures

Scorers

Player	Appearances			Substitutions			Goals
	League	Cup	Total	League	Cup	Total	League	Cup	Total
D Bircham	32	10	42
M Goode	29	12	41	1		1
M Stevenson	31	10	41				16	8	24
JP Duncliffe	30	10	40				3		3
D Matson	25	12	37	1		1	19	10	29
D Cobb	29	8	37				8	3	11
M Porter	27	8	35	6	2	8
L Ellison	25	7	32	2		2	7	1	8
S Woods	24	7	31	1	2	3
D Cornell	18	5	23	1		1	2		2
A Ellis	17	6	23	9	1	10	4	1	5
S Bettinson	15	5	20	2	2	4	2		2
R Thompson	16	2	18	2	2	4	6	1	7
R Challinor	11	1	12	3	3	6
A Weston	12	5	17	4		4	2	1	3
M Kingston	10	2	12	13	4	17	2	1	3
M Baines	5	2	7	2	1	3	1	1	2
B Daley	4	3	7	7	3	10
L Howarth	4	1	5	4	1	5
T Korkmaz	4	1	5	4		4
Banks	2	1	3					3	3
Cundy	2	1	3
D Burton-Jones	1	1	2	4	1	5	1		1
M Lovelace	2		2	2	2	4
J Vincent	1	1	2
K Ward		1	1	5	1	6	1		1
J Lawrence	1		1	2	1	3		1	1
J Lowndes	1		1
Benjamin				1	1	2
D Mosley	1		1
J Stead	1		1
N Jones				3	3	6
Camara				1		1

League Table

2007-2008 Season
Eagle Bitter United Counties Football League
Premier Division
	played	won	drawn	lost	for	against	diff	points
Stotfold	40	28	7	5	117	45	72	91
Long Buckby	40	23	12	5	99	49	50	81
Desborough Town	40	23	12	5	78	44	34	81
Blackstones	39	24	7	8	89	48	41	79
Boston Town	40	21	9	10	73	53	20	72
St Ives Town	39	21	8	10	76	58	18	71
Deeping Rangers	40	20	12	8	80	39	41	69
St Neots Town	39	16	11	12	67	48	19	59
Cogenhoe United	40	15	12	13	61	52	9	57
Wellingborough Town 2004	40	16	8	16	56	52	4	56
Holbeach United	40	16	7	17	72	73	-1	55
Stewarts & Lloyds Corby	40	15	8	17	65	64	1	53
Sleaford Town	40	15	6	19	73	76	-3	51
Newoort Pagnell Town	40	15	6	19	60	73	-13	51
Northampton Spencer	39	13	11	15	60	51	9	50
Yaxley	40	11	8	21	51	78	-27	41
Raunds Town	40	9	10	21	58	75	-17	37
Bourne Town	40	9	7	24	49	85	-36	34
Potton United	40	9	5	26	45	90	-45	32
Wootton Blue Cross	40	7	9	24	56	109	-53	30
AFC Kempston Rovers	40	3	3	34	26	149	-123	11

Match Reports

Monday 12 May HINCHINGBROOKE CUP FINAL Blackstones 1 Deeping Rangers 3

The final game of the season takes place at Jubilee Park, Huntingdon Town F C and is the third encounter between these two local adversaries with Rangers having drawn blood in the previous two League games. Last year Rangers lost the final 3 – 2 to St Ives, so this time they were determined to go one better and spoil the party for their local rivals who were looking for their second trophy of the season.

Both Blackstones and Deeping Rangers field a full team and the pace of play is furious from the start. As early as the third minute Danny Bircham is called in to action to turn a Blackstones shot round the post as he dives full length to his left to parry the ball with both hands. On 15 minutes Blackstones see another shot fly over the Rangers bar. Four minutes later Rangers won a free kick 20 yards out. Lee Ellison kicks the ball through the defensive wall, but the ball flies wide of the post with the keeper beaten. Deeping kept up the pressure and this time a good delivery from a corner ball is cleared off the line again with the Blackstones custodian nowhere. On the half hour the game started to hot up and 5 minutes later Blackstones took the lead with a long range screamer from Andy Boome. This was to be the only mistake the Deeping defence make all game. Rangers then mounted another attack and although their shot was on target the Blackstones keeper was up for it and saved for a corner.

The second half starts with Deeping on the attack and playing good fluent passing football. Danny Matson soon has a chance which is cleared off the line. Rangers increase the pressure throughout the second half which they totally dominate and on 65 minutes Michael Stevenson equalises. From then on Deeping just get better and better and it starts to look like there would be only one winner, and they are in claret and blue. Rangers make a substitute when Sam Bettinson is taken off and replaced with Mark Baines. Big Sam has played his part in the game causing problems for the Blackstones defence throughout. Deeping pour forward again and this time David Cobb blasts his shot over the bar.The Blackstones players are starting to get frustrated by the wave after wave of Rangers attacks, which culminates in Richard Jones being shown a second yellow card on 89 minutes reducing his team to 10 men. With the score level on 90 minutes extra time will be played.

It does not take long for Mark Baines to put Deeping in front, and shortly after top scorer Danny Matson increases the lead. With 10 men against 11 men Blackstones are chasing shadows and Rangers continue to threaten with next Lee Ellison and then Danny Matson also having a chance. Blackstones rarely venture out of their half in extra time such is the domination of Deeping Rangers. At the final whistle the travelling the “Tuncay Korkmaz Barmy Army” is elated at seeing their team lift another piece of silver ware.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Andy Ellis, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Dave Weston (Mark Kingston), Lee Ellison (Scott Woods), Sam Bettinson (Mark Baines), Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Dave Burton-Jones.

Monday 24 March Blackstones 0 Deeping Rangers 3

Rangers dented Blackstones title winning hopes with this convincing win at London Road. This was a game that Deeping dominated from beginning to end, and Blackstones rarely troubled Rangers custodian Danny Bircham.The game started at a fast pace, and Blackstones were the brighter team. Deeping slowly played their way back into the game and on 14 minutes they won a penalty for hand ball. The usually reliable Michael Stevenson took the spot kick, but the kick was poor, and with no pace, and Ian Flavell dived the right way to keep the ball out of the net. On 35 minutes David Cobb was brought down in the Blackstones box, but this time appeals for a penalty were turned down. Although the first half finished goalless Deeping created the better chances. In the second half Rangers upped the tempo and soon had the home side on the back foot. On 60 minutes Deeping won a free kick deep into the Blackstones half, and a good delivery enabled Dave Cornell to put the visitors in front. Rangers then made a change taking off Richard Thompson and sending on Andy Ellis. Fifteen minutes later Cornell was on hand again to head the ball into the back of the net to double the lead. Mark Baines then killed the game when he turned at close range to fire home and make it 3 – 0 to complete the double over Blackstones.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Mark Kingston, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, David Cornell, Matt Porter, Mark Baines (Sam Bettinson), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Andy Ellis), Adam Weston, David Cobb (Tuncay Korkmaz).

Saturday 15 March - Deeping Rangers 0 Daventry Town 3

Rangers entertained Division 1 leaders Daventry Town in this League Knock Out Cup Semi Final. Daventry started like a train and were straight on the attack. They had the ball in the net after just 4 minutes. Rangers were slow to settle and on the quarter hour they found themselves 2 -0 down. The home team slowly played themselves back in to the game and on the half hour J P Duncliffe hit the post from a free kick. The second half was 5 minutes old when Rangers hit the bar. They seemed unable to find the net. On 75 minutes Daventry were awarded a penalty for holding in the box and the ball was slotted passed Danny Bircham to end the game as a contest. Not only did Daventry Town progress to the League Cup Final, but they also won the Division 1 title as their nearest rivals failed to secure all 3 points.

Tuesday 11 March - Deeping Rangers 1 Sleaford Town 0

Atrocious weather conditions before and during the game, with wind rain and hail could not put a damper on this local derby. Rangers started the first half playing into the wind. It was 35 minutes before the Sleaford players really tested Danny Bircham who leapt high to palm the ball over the bar. Five minutes later Bircham punted the ball up the pitch to David Cobb who ran at the Sleaford defence and into their penalty box. With just the keeper to beat he slotted the ball into the bottom corner of the net. It was the best game Cobb had played all season, and he terrorised the Sleaford defence with his running both on and off the ball. Over and over again he made long probing runs into the opponents half. On 60 minutes he made one such run picking the ball up in his own half he ran at the Sleaford defence and unleashed his shot from 20 yards out. The ball was going in the top corner of the goal, but the keeper managed to tip the ball over the bar. In the second half Deeping had the benefit of a back wind, but they could not make any further break through.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson, (Mark Kingston), Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Adam Weston, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson (Andy Ellis), Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Richard Challinor.

Tuesday 26 February - Deeping Rangers 5 Rushden & Higham 0

Rangers entertained Rushden & Higham in the Hinchingbroke Cup. This being the first time these two sides had met since Rangers were promoted to the Eagle Bitter United Counties Premier League. The first half was goalless with the visitors defending for large periods of time as Rangers dominated play. The second half was only 5 minutes old when Deeping won a penalty for hand ball following a corner. The usually reliable Stevo stepped up for the spot kick, but the keeper guessed the right way and kept the ball out of the net. Then followed a period of slack defending when Rangers scored 3 quick goals. First David Cobb makes it 1 – 0, and 2 minutes later Stevo doubles the score with a looping header. Danny Matson was the next to get on the score sheet. 3 – 0 within 5 minutes. The next goal was the best of the night. Ranger’s custodian Danny Bircham punted the ball up the field. The ball was intercepted by Danny Matson who lobbed the visiting keeper without the ball touching the ground. The scoring was completed with a solo effort from Mark Kingston.

23 February – Deeping Rangers 2 AFC Kempston 0

Rangers entertained the Premier Division whipping boys at Outgang Road, who were a greatly improved side to the one that Deeping beat in November 4 – 0. Rangers dominated the game from the outset, but the visitors defended resolutely to keep a clean sheet at half time. All of the Deeping strikers were guilty of missing chances in the first half. The second half was 4 minutes old when Deeping opened the scoring. Rangers won a free kick approx 20 yards out. Deeping skipper Lee Ellison made no mistake with the kick and the ball slammed into the back of the net. On 70 minutes Tung made his first change of the game, taking off front man Richard Thompson and introducing Mark Kingston to the fray. Rangers continued to threaten, but were poor in the final third. On 75 minutes Danny Matson was denied twice by Chris Williscroft in the Kempston goal, during a frantic tussle for the ball. As the clock wound down to the final whistle Deeping made a further change, sending on Lee Howarth and taking off Richard Challinor. Top scorer Danny Matson was a constant threat to the visitors, and with a minute remaining he added to his tally with a headed goal following a corner.

The match sponsor was long time Rangers supporter Roy Robinson. The Vine Man of the Match sponsored by The Vine Market Deeping was Dave Cornell.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Scott Woods, Adam Weston, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Lee Howarth), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Mark Kingston), Danny Matson, Andy Ellis. Subs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz.

9 February – Deeping Rangers 1 Stewart & Lloyds Corby 0

This was a hard fought 3 points for Deeping against a very physical opposition. With Danny Bircham being away on a school trip Reserve custodian Jamie Lowndes was given a chance to shine. Rangers dominated the first half, keeping the visitors under pressure for most of the time. On the quarter hour Danny Matson was brought down in the S & L penalty box, and the referee pointed to the spot and blew his whistle. Before the kick could be taken he then consulted with his assistant and changed his mind, to award a dropped ball. Deeping continued to trouble S & L custodian Richard Lavin, but could not make a breakthrough.Matson was a constant thorn in the side of the visitors, keeping the keeper busy, and occasionally being caught offside. On the half hour Rangers front man Danny Matson was again brought down in the S & L penalty box, and this time the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. The penalty kick was coolly dispatched by Michael Stevenson to score his second penalty goal in two games. The second half was a total turn around. Rangers dominated the first 45 minutes, with the opposition making rare sorties out of their half. In the second 45 minutes S & L were the dominant team, and had Deeping under pressure for long periods of time. Deeping still created chances, with the best falling to David Cobb. The last 10 minutes saw Rangers under constant pressure, and they defended numerous corners to keep the visitors at bay.

The Vine Man of the Match was J P Duncliffe, who was a colossus in defence.

Deeping Rangers: Jamie Lowndes, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson (Richard Challinor 69 mins), Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Adam Weston, Lee Ellison, Andy Ellis, Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Richard Thompson, Mark Kingston.

2 February Desborough Town 2 Deeping Rangers 2

Rangers were the better team in this game and deserved to win but for 2 defensive errors for which they were punished. Ar Tarn took the lead after only 15 minutes and against the run of play when the Deeping defence was caught square. Rangers were on the attack from the restart and Andy Ellis saw his shot from an acute angle palmed round the post for a corner. Desborough doubled their lead following a mix up in the Rangers defence. The ball was given away to a Desborough player who rounded Deeping custodian Danny Bircham to place the ball in the net, to the delight of the home fans. Deeping hit back straight away with a wonderful goal from their captain Lee Ellison. Dave Cornell was then injured in an aerial challenge and had to be replaced with Matt Porter. Rangers then won a free kick about 20 yards out from the Ar Tarn goal. This was taken well, but Michael Evans dived low to his right to push the ball round the post.In the second half Deeping upped the tempo as they went looking for an equaliser. The visiting fans sensed an upset on the cards; if Rangers could score an early goal they would go on to win. On 65 minutes Bircham made a brilliant one handed save to keep his team in the game. On 83 minutes Deeping had their best chance of the game. Adam Weston played in Andy Ellis, but he missed from 10 yards when scoring would have been easier. Two minutes later David Cobb was brought down in the Ar Tarn penalty box right in front of the home fans. Michael Stevenson kept his cool as he rifled the ball in to the back of the net to snatch a point from the mouth of defeat. For the remaining minutes Deeping poured forward looking for a winner, but they could not break down the home defence.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell (Matt Porter), Michael Goode, Adam Weston, Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson, Andy Ellis, David Cobb. Subs not used: Mark Kingston, Lee Howarth.

Saturday 26 January Deeping Rangers 4 Wootton Blue Cross 2

With the teams around them dropping points Rangers took the opportunity to move up to 3rd in the League by taking maximum points, and completing the double over Wootton Blue Cross. This was a long awaited game, as it was the first Deeping League match in 2008. Rangers showed their title credentials from the start as they pinned the visitors back for long periods in the first half. After 4 minutes Richard Thompson had the ball in the net but was adjudged offside. A minute later Danny Matson rounded the Blue Cross defence forcing Wootton custodian Dan Rodgers to push the ball round the post for a corner. Deeping continued to pressurise the Wootton defence and slowly wore them down. On the half hour it was Danny Matson that made the breakthrough to give the hosts the lead. The second half was only 5 minutes old when Rangers doubled their lead. They were awarded a penalty, and Michael Stevenson dispatched the spot kick, sending the keeper the wrong way. Wootton hit straight back, and with their first attack after the restart they had the ball in the top corner of the Rangers net.This goal started a Wootton revival, and for the next 10 minutes they were on top pressing for an equaliser. J P Duncliffe was forced to rescue Deeping when he cleared the ball off the line. On the hour Rangers made their first substitution. Adam Weston was taken off, and Andy Ellis was sent on. Soon after Bircham was forced into a fine save, when he dived low to the left to turn the ball round the post. On 75 minutes Lee Ellison intercepted the ball close to the Rangers penalty area and started a counter attack. He slotted the ball to Matson who ran on to score his second and restore the 2 goal margin. With 10 minutes remaining Ellison was replaced by Tunkay Korkmaz, making a rare appearance for his team. Danny Bircham then booted the ball up the pitch to Richard Thompson, who lobbed Dan Rogers in the Blue Cross goal to make it 4 – 1. The visitors were not prepared to roll over and on 85 minutes they were awarded a penalty. Although Bircham dived the right way the ball crept under his body and into the net. The action was still not finished, and in the closing minutes Thompson beat the offside trap and went one on one with the Wooton keeper, who dived low to save at the striker’s feet.

The Vine Man of the Match – Lee Ellison.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Adam Weston (Andy Ellis), Lee Ellison (Tunkay Korkmaz), Richard Thompson, Danny Matson, David Cobb Subs not used: Scott Woods.

Saturday 5 January Deeping Rangers 2 Cogenhoe United 0

When these two sides met in the league earlier in the season they shared 5 goals between them, and the watching crowd were expecting a similar encounter in this League Cup match with lots of goals and a close game. Instead they watched a lacklustre game with neither side playing to their full potential. Rangers created the best chances in the first half and should have been two goals in front within 10 minutes but for good defending and poor finishing. On 40 minutes David Cobb was one on one with the Cogenhoe custodian Darren Watts. His shot was blocked by the keeper. The rebound fell to Danny Matson who also saw his shot blocked, and the ball then rebounded to Michael Stevenson, and again his shot was blocked. It seemed as if Rangers would never make a breakthrough. The second half saw Deeping play better football, and they dominated the second 45 minutes. On 50 minutes Michael Stevenson managed to find a way through the Cogenhoe defence to give the home side a well deserved lead. Ten minutes later top scorer Danny Matson beat the offside trap to slot the ball under Watts to double the lead. At this point Rangers were in total control and the visitors were starting to get frustrated. This culminated in Cogenhoe being reduced to 10 men for a foul on Matson. With the numerical advantage Deeping continued to press forward, but could not make any further breakthrough, and their goal was seldom threatened.

The Vine Man of the match, sponsored by The Vine, Market Deeping was Danny Matson. For the second game in a row.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson (Richard Challinor), Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Adam Weston, Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Andy Ellis), Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz

Wednesday 26 December Deeping Rangers 2 Blackstones 1

This festive encounter between two title contenders had all the hallmarks of being a classic, and the large crowd watching were not disappointed. The match ball was sponsored by DRFC Press Officer Andrew Bowell. The action was end to end throughout the game, as both sides sparred to gain an upper hand. The deadlock was broken on 23 minutes when Danny Matson was brought down in the Blackstones penalty area. The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, and the penalty kick was dispatched by Michael Stephenson into the back of the net. Three minutes later David Mosely was put through on goal but was adjudged offside by the assistant referee. Blackstones broke away with a counter attack, and hit the Rangers goal bar. The rebound was kicked back in and was cleared off the line by Matt Porter.On the half hour we all thought Rangers had doubled their score when a ball from Danny Matson beat the keeper and hit the post. The ball bobbled out instead of going in. Andy Ellis then hit a long range shot over the bar before half time. The second period started as the first half had ended with both teams vying for supremacy. Blackstones soon equalised in the first minute with a goal from Kevin Ainslie. Rangers then had 2 near misses before they made a substitution with David Mosely being replaced by former Stones player Richard Thompson. With 15 minutes remaining an inch perfect pass found Danny Matson who left his marker to slot the ball passed Ian Flavell to restore the lead for Rangers. Deeping still had time for another change as Richard Challinor came on for Michael Stevenson. Rangers continued to defend well and were worthy winners on 90 minutes. The Vine Man of the Match was Danny Matson who made one goal and scored the other.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Andy Ellis, Michael Stevenson (Richard Challinor), Matt Porter, Michael Goode, David Mosely (Richard Thompson), Lee Ellison, Adam Weston, Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: David Burton-Jones, Ben Daly, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Saturday 23 December Deeping Rangers 1 Stotfold 1

This eagerly awaited top of the table clash attracted a large crowd to Outgang Road, as both sides looked to cement their place at the top of the league. It was a very physical hard game and both keepers were kept busy throughout. Rangers were the better team in the first half, and David Cobb put them ahead on 34 minutes. The home side created enough chances to win the game in the first half, but the Stotfold custodian Brad Gilham was in superb form keeping the ball at bay. As the game progressed Stotfold improved and in the second half it was Danny Bircham who was the busier keeper. On 74 minutes Paul Garrett squeezed the ball between Bircham and the post to level the scores. Straight after Deeping made their first substitution as they went looking for a winner. Mark Kingston replaced Richard Thompson. Later Richard Challinor replaced Michael Stevenson, but Deeping could not find away through the Stotfold defence. The draw was a disappointment for the home fans, as the Eagles have 4 games in hand over the reigning Champions.

The Vine Man of the Match was David Cobb.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson (Richard Challinor), Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, David Cobb, Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Mark Kingston), Adam Weston, Andy Ellis, Subs not used: Lee Haworth.

Saturday 15 December Deeping Rangers 1 Wellingborough Town 2004 0

Rangers extended their unbeaten run to 10 games with this win over Wellingborough Town and returned to the top of the league. Games between these two sides have traditionally been tight with the last 3 League games being draws. The Doughboys showed their early intentions in the first 5 minutes when they hit the Rangers goal post. Both sides then fought to control the game with play ebbing and flowing from end to end. On 29 minutes Wellingborough were reduced to 10 men when a player was red carded for swearing at the referee. Rangers could not make their numerical supremacy count in the first 45 minutes and both sides went in at the break goalless. On 65 minutes Rangers made a change in personnel when Mark Kingston replaced Richard Challinor. This change almost bore dividends four minutes later. David Cobb dispossessed the Doughboys keeper and left him stranded in no mans land. Cobb ran in to the 8 yards box, but sliced his shot just outside the post with the goal gaping. Deeping then took off Richard Thompson and introduced Adam Weston to the fray as they went in search of that all important breakthrough. As the clock ticked down to what the fans thought would be a goalless draw Michael Stevenson found himself in a scoring position, and smashed the ball into the back of the Wellingborough net. From the restart the visitors went looking for an equaliser, and even hit the Rangers goal post for the second time in the game, but they could not breach the defence. Deeping took all 3 points, and now face a difficult Christmas period when they play 3 of the top 4 teams.

The Vine Man of the Match was the Rangers skipper Lee Ellison.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Mark Kingston), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Adam Weston), Andy Ellis, David Cobb. Subs not used: Lee Howarth, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Tuesday 11 December Deeping Rangers 7 Bourne Town 0

This was a good night for Deeping Rangers, as Tuncay Korkmaz was presented with the Manager of the Month award before the game, and at half time Deeping Rangers were presented with the F.A. Charter by representatives from Lincolnshire F.A. The games between these two local rivals are usually hard fought and fiercely contested, and the watching fans were expecting a close match. Rangers took the lead after 4 minutes with a goal from Andy Ellis and after that the traffic was all one way in the first half, as Deeping took total control of the game. David Cobb made it 2 – 0 on 23 minutes and Lee Ellison made it 3 – 0 on 26 minutes with the ball going in off the post. Michael Stevenson then got in on the act with a goal on 36 minutes. Rangers were cruising. Deeping then made their first change with Adam Weston replacing Richard Challinor. With 5 minutes to half time Bourne were awarded a free kick about 25 yards out, but this was taken poorly and the ball rolled slowly to a Rangers defender to clear. The second half started and continued in the same vain. On 55 minutes the Wakes keeper Aaron Bellairs made a good save to deny David Cobb, and turned the ball round the post for a corner. Five minutes later Rangers won a free kick from a similar position, and Michael Stevenson stepped up to blast the ball in the net for 5 – 0. On 65 minutes Rangers custodian Danny Bircham had to make his only real save of the night to keep a clean sheet. Two minutes later Deeping made a further change with David Burton-Jones going on for Richard Thompson. The next goal was quite bazaar. David Cobb tried to round the Bourne keeper but went too far. He recovered the ball on the bi-line and pulled it back to score off the keeper. It was time for another substitution for Deeping with Mark Kingston replacing Matt Porter. Stevo then had a chance to claim his hat trick but Bellairs saved with his body before Andy Ellis blasted his shot over the bar. Ellis wasn’t finished with scoring, and right at the end he made a solo run into the Bourne penalty area before slotting the ball passed the keeper for 7 – 0.

The Vine Man of the Match was Andy Ellis. The Match Ball Sponsor was Rangers gate man Roy Robinson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter (Mark Kingston), Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Adam Weston), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (David Burton-Jones), Andy Ellis, David Cobb.

Saturday 1st December Wooton Blue Cross 1 Deeping Rangers 2

Rangers went to the top of the League with this win at Weston Park, and all the teams above them dropping points. This game was very bitty, and Deeping had to grind out the 3 points against a battling Blue Cross side that always looked dangerous going forward and at corners. Deepings first real chance came on 18 minutes when a David Cobb shot looked to be flying into the top corner of the net, but the Blue Cross keeper Piotr Karpiuk leapt high to palm the ball away. With 10 minutes to half time the hosts nearly took the lead from a corner. The ball was curling into the Rangers net direct from the kick, but Danny Bircham tipped the ball over the bar. Just as it looked like both teams would go in at the break goalless Danny Matson scored to give Deeping the lead. The ball took ages to cross the line and looked to be going wide before it turned into the net. Blue Cross started brightly in the second half, but Rangers soaked up the pressure and slowly pushed them back. On 70 minutes Richard Thompson was taken off and Adam Weston went on. This had an immediate impact and 3 minutes later Matson scored to double the lead. Blue Cross continued to look dangerous on the break, and with 11 minutes remaining their no 10 was left unmarked to fire the ball home passed Danny Bircham. This lifted the home team as they sensed they may get a point, and from the restart they played with renewed vigour. Deeping then made a second substitution taking of Challinor and introducing Andy Ellis. Inspite of Blue Cross efforts Rangers defended well as the clock ran down to full time, and deserved to take the 3 points.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Andy Ellis), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Adam Weston), Danny Matson, David Cobb.

Tuesday 28 November Sleaford Town 0 Deeping Rangers 4

Rangers moved to within 3 points of the leaders with this win over local rivals Sleaford Town, and scored 4 goals without reply. Deeping were in control from the kick off and as early as the 6th minute captain Lee Ellison played a through ball to Richard Thompson who ran on to slot past the Sleaford keeper. On the quarter hour Danny Matson was pushed over in the Sleaford penalty area and Ellison stepped up for the spot kick. The visiting fans were expecting a goal from their Captain Fantastic, but he somehow sliced the ball past the outside of the post. It was not long before the lead was doubled, when a David Cobb shot went in after deflection by a defender. Sleaford then had their best chance of the half with a long range effort hitting the Deeping goal bar. With 5 minutes remaining to half time Cobb nearly claimed a second when his shot was turned round the post for a corner. J P Duncliffe delivered the ball into the Sleaford box, and Ellison rushed in but headed over the bar. Rangers’ custodian Danny Bircham had to make his first real save of the game on 66 minutes when he leapt high to stop the ball going into the top corner of the net. Deeping then made their first change taking off Richard Challinor and replacing him with new signing Adam Weston, making his first appearance for the club. On 70 minutes Danny Matson scored the best goal of the game when he put the ball into the top corner of the net from the side line. Whether it was a cross or not we will never know. Deeping then made their second change. Richard Thompson was replaced by David Burton-Jones. With 5 minutes remaining Adam Weston completed the scoring when he claimed his first goal for the club with the assistance of a Sleaford foot.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Adam Weston), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (David Burton-Jones), Danny Matson, David Cobb.

Saturday 17th November Deeping Rangers 1 Newport Pagnell 1

Pagnell started this game well and pushed Rangers onto the defence. The home side worked their way back into the game and were soon in control. On 23 minutes Deeping won a corner and J P Duncliffe delivered the ball which missed everybody’s head and fell to the feet of Danny Matson. His shot hit the side netting. Nine minutes later Matson had another chance when he lost his marker, but his shot was straight at the keeper. The keeper failed to hold and the ball rebounded, but Matson could not get to the ball in time. On 40 minutes Jamie Lawrence had the ball in the net but he was offside. Pagnell then nearly took the lead from a free kick, but the ball was headed straight into the hands of Danny Bircham. The second half was 10 minutes old when Danny Matson finally scored to give Rangers the lead. Deeping then made a change taking off Jamie Lawrence and bringing on Andy Ellis. Pagnell won a free kick 20 yards out from the Deeping goal but the ball went straight into the defensive wall. After that everything went horribly wrong, starting with Danny Matson being red carded. On 65 minutes Richard Thompson was pushed over in the Pagnell box and the crowd appealed for a penalty, but the referee thought otherwise. Even the Pagnell bench thought it should have been a spot kick. On 74 minutes Thompson crossed the ball for Ellis at the far post but his header was saved by the keeper. With 12 minutes remaining Deeping made a second substitution. Tunge sent himself on and took off Thompson as he changed the team to a more defensive look. Rangers’ first attack after the change saw Andy Ellis blast the ball over the Pagnell bar. The visitors then sensed they might get something from the game and went up a gear as they put Rangers under increasing pressure. This finally paid off on 81 mins with an equaliser from Sam Bissue With 3 minutes remaining Rangers were reduced to 9 men when Scott Woods was shown the red card for throwing the ball at a Pagnell player. Deeping managed to hold out for a point in a game they should have won.

Match sponsor was Acrabuild (Anglia) Ltd.

The Vine Man of the Match was Rangers captain Lee Ellison.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor, Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Tuncay Korkmaz 78mins), Danny Matson, Jamie Lawrence (Andy Ellis 65 mins). Subs unused: Mark Kingston, Ben Daly.

Tuesday 13 November - Yaxley 0 Deeping Rangers 2

Rangers travelled to Leading Drove for the second time in a week this time to play Yaxley in the League. After the disappointing draw at the weekend against Northampton Spencer Deeping were looking for a win to move them back into the top half of the table. Rangers started the stronger team, playing good passing football and keeping the ball on the floor. It took Yaxley a while to get into the game, and Deeping custodian Danny Bircham had very little to do until the 43rd minute when Mark Paul lost his marker, and when one on one with the keeper Danny managed to block the shot with his body.The Referee managed to find 10 minutes of stoppage time in the first half, and 5 minutes into the added time Richard Thompson popped up to give Deeping the lead. Tunge made his first substitution on 65 minutes taking off David Cobb and sending on Mark Kingston. Ten minutes later Deeping split the home defence open and Danny Matson hit the Yaxley post. Rangers then made another change, replacing the scorer Thompson with David Burton-Jones. This had an immediate impact with Mark Kingston setting up skipper Lee Ellison for no 2. With 10 minutes remaining Deeping made their final change with Ben Daly going on for Danny Matson. Deeping totally dominated the second half and deserved to take all 3 points.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, David Cornell, Michael Goode, Mark Baines, Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson ( David Burton-Jones 75 mins), Danny Matson (Ben Daly 80 mins), David Cobb ( Mark Kingston 65 mins). Subs not used: Richard Challinor.

Saturday 10 November - Deeping Rangers 0 Northampton Spencer 0

Rangers kept a clean sheet for the second Saturday in a row, but failed to find the back of the net. They also gave a debut for Richard Thompson who has signed from Wellingborough Town to increase the attacking options for Deeping. Very few chances were created by either side, and neither keeper had to make a proper save until the final 15 minutes. It was on 75 minutes that Rangers won a corner. The ball was headed down by Michael Stevenson and everybody thought it had gone in but somehow it was scrambled out. Spencer then had their best chance of the game when a player was put through on goal, but Danny Bircham saved at his feet.

The Vine Man of the Match was Danny Matson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Matt Porter 69 mins), Lee Ellison, Richard Thompson (Mark Kingston 65 mins), Danny Matson, David Cobb Subs not used: Ben Daly, Andy Ellis, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Tuesday 6 November - Yaxley 1 Deeping Rangers 2

Rangers progressed to the 2nd round of the League Cup with this win at Leading Drove against a team containing 2 former Rangers players. Both sides created few chances in the first half, and Deeping’s best chance came on 32 minutes when David Cobb saw his shot fly over the bar with Yaxley keeper John Feetham diving full length. Rangers custodian Danny Bircham later went down with a head injury following a challenge but he was able to carry on until half time. ight on half time Yaxley scored against the run of play to go in at the break leading 1 – 0. Danny Bircham did not come out for the second half, as he was taken to hospital for a check up. Mark Baines took his place between the sticks, and Rangers new boy Jamie Lawrence came on. Baines had very little to do for the next 45 minutes, as most play occurred in the Yaxley half Rangers made a further change taking off Challinor and sending on Burton-Jones. On 75 minutes Danny Matson was brought down in the Yaxley penalty box and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Michael Stevenson stepped up for the penalty kick and sent Feetham the wrong way to equalise. At this point the Deeping players and supporters sensed they could win the game, as Deeping were in total control playing quick passing football. With 10 minutes remaining Rangers made their second substitution, with Matt Porter replacing Ben Daley. The Deeping players continued to press forward looking for a winner, and this came in the dying seconds with Jamie Lawrence scoring his first goal for the club.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham (Jamie Lawrence), J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (David Burton-Jones), Ben Daley (Matt Porter), Mark Baines, Danny Matson, David Cobb.

Saturday, 03 November 2007 - Deeping Rangers 6 Desborough Town 0

It was unlucky thirteen for Desborough as their twelve match unbeaten start came to grief at Outgang Road against a rampant Rangers. Lee Ellison marked his return to the starting line up with a ninth minute opener for the champions and Deeping took a tight grip on the contest with two goals in four minutes late in the half. Michael Stevenson scored Rangers' second goal after 34 minutes and Danny Matson made it three four minutes later. Matson scored again five minutes into the second half with Stevenson netting his second on the hour. An 85th minute Tom Mills own goal rounded off an afternoon to forget for Ar Tarn.

Deeping: Danny Bircham, John Paul Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Richard Challinor (Jamie Lawrence), Lee Ellison (Ben Daly), Tuncay Korkmaz (Matt Porter), Danny Matson, David Cobb.

Tuesday 31 October - Holbeach 2 Deeping Rangers 1

It was the same old tune as Rangers yet again struggled to find the net in a game they dominated throughout. The Tigers took the lead in the 3rd minute when they won a free kick deep in the Deeping half. Danny Bircham leapt for the ball but he was badly placed and with nobody defending the far post Holbeach had a free header. On 11 minutes Danny Matson was brought down in the Tigers penalty box. Despite appeals from the visiting fans referee Helen Fulcher would have nothing of it and play continued. Rangers created the most chances in the first half but could not make a breakthrough. Early in the second half David Cobb nearly equalised when his shot went inches wide with players rushing in. Five minutes later Omar Joof hit a thunderbolt at the other end which Bircham stopped with his body. On 63 minutes Danny Matson cut into the middle of the Holbeach half and unleashed a shot which looked like it was going in, but the ball flew over the bar. At this point Rangers were in total control. Two minutes later Simmo made a crucial change when he took off J P Duncliffe and introduces Lee Ellison. This made an immediate impact and a minute later Matson laid the ball on for Ellison to bang it into the back of the net. Deeping were then forced to make another change with Mark Lovelace getting injured. He was replaced by David Burton-Jones making his first start of the season. With 5 minutes remaining Rangers win a free kick and Richard Challinor whipped the ball in for the advancing Burton-Jones whose header flew over the bar. In the dying minutes Holbeach managed to scramble the ball over the Rangers goal line to take all 3 points.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Scott Woods, Tuncay Korkmaz, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, J P Duncliffe (Lee Ellison 65 mins), Richard Challinor, Mark Lovelace (David Burton-Jones), Danny Matson, David Cobb.

Saturday 26 October – Deeping Rangers 0 St Neots Town 3

A large crowd watched this game, which Rangers hoped to win to continue their climb up the League table. Lee Howarth and new signing Jon Stead went close for Deeping early on, before St Neots player Mark Barry combined with Barrington Belgrave to hit the outside of the Rangers post on 13 minutes. It was Belgrave who gave the visitors the lead on 20 minutes after Mark Barry and Arin Fehmi combined on the left. Rangers then had a couple of chances to equalise. Both Sam Bettinson and another new signing Richard Challinor both missed opportunities. Challinor missing a diving header towards an open goal. In the second half both sides had chances, but poor finishing again meant Deeping failed to score for the second game on the trot. On 78 minutes Rangers were dealt a further blow when Sam Bettinson had to go off injured and was replaced by Mark Kingston. Steve Kuhne came on for St Neots and made an instant impact, latching on to a through ball from Bas Belgrave and rounding Deeping custodian Danny Bircham to slot home on 85 minutes. Tung then made a double substitution, taking off J P Duncliffe and Richard Challinor, and sending on Matt Porter and Ben Daly. Deeping could not make a breakthrough, and it was St Neots who ended the game more strongly. First Ryan Francis hit the Deeping woodwork before Belgrave claimed his second of the game in stoppage time, when he held off a Ben Daly challenge to score from a narrow angle.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe (Matt Porter), Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson Dave Cornell, Lee Howarth, Richard Challinor (Ben Daly), Mark Baines, Sam Bettinson (Mark Kingston), Danny Matson, Jon Stead. Subs not used: Lee Ellison, Tuncay Korkmaz.,/P>

Tuesday 23 October - Deeping Rangers 0 Bottesford Town 2

Bottesford Town made the long trip to Outgang Road for this Lincolnshire Cup game, having knocked out Boston Town in the previous round. Deeping were guilty of missing too many chances in the first half, and should have killed the game by half time. On 20 minutes Rangers won a free kick just outside the Bottesford penalty area. JP Duncliffe took the kick, and the visiting keeper leapt high to palm the ball over the bar. Five minutes later another chance was wasted when Danny Matson was dispossessed almost on the Bottesford goal line, when Kevin Ward was waiting unmarked at the far post. Phil Jackman gave the visitors the lead just before half time following a mix up in the Rangers defence. Deeping made changes at half time, taking off Kevin Ward and Danny Matson, and sending on Sam Bettinson and Mark Lovelace. It was Bottesford that started the strongest, and they increased their lead on 55 minutes when their no 9 rounded Rangers custodian Danny Bircham. On 67 minutes Michael Goode had to go off injured, and Lee Howarth went on, but Rangers could not make a breakthrough. As the game went on Bottesford grew in stature as they worked hard for the result.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode ( Lee Howarth 67 mins), Mark Baines, Ben Daley, Kevin Ward (Sam Bettinson 45mins), Danny Matson (Mark Lovelace 45 mins).Subs unused: Mat Porter, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Saturday 20 October - Potton United 1 Deeping Rangers 4

Four goals, four different scorers and 3 points as Rangers extend their unbeaten run to 7 games at The Hollow. The game did not start according to plan as the Royals scored within a minute of the start, with what everybody thought was a cross, but the ball finished up in the net. They were then forced to make a change when Matt Porter was injured and replaced with Scott Woods Deeping stayed calm and slowly worked their way back into the game, and on 13 minutes Danny Matson set up JP Duncliffe to score his second goal in 2 games, with the ball going in off the upright. Rangers then started to control the game, and dominate the opposition. On 35 minutes a goal bound shot was stopped from going in the net by a Potton players arm, and all the visiting fans appealed for hand ball, but the appeals fell on deaf ears. On 43 minutes Deeping should have doubled their lead when Sam Bettinson fed the ball into the Royals box and on to the head of Danny Matson. Danny should have done better, but the ball went high into the air and was caught by the Potton keeper. The second half was only 3 minutes old when Mark Kingston scored his second goal in two games to give Rangers the lead. Deeping were now playing some of their best football and pouring forward into the Potton half. On 53 minutes Danny Matson found himself one on one with the Potton keeper, but managed to shoot wide. Potton clawed back in to the game, and Deeping custodian Danny Bircham had to pull off an outstanding one handed save on 65 minutes as he leapt high to tip the ball over the bar. Five minutes later Danny Matson made it 3 – 1 to Rangers. Shortly after Rangers made their second substitution taking off Danny Matson and bringing on Kevin Ward. This change had an immediate impact as Ward scored on 84 minutes to end the game as a contest. With 2 minutes remaining Deeping made a final substitution when Sam Bettinson came off and Manager Tuncay Korkmaz went on. Tunge soon had the ball in the net only for the goal to be disallowed. The clock ticked down to full time, and the Rangers supporters returned home happy with all 3 points secured.,/P> Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter (Scott Woods 14 mins), Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Mark Kingston, Den Daley, Sam Bettinson (Tuncay Korkmaz 84 mins), Danny Matson (Kevin Ward 77 mins), David Cobb.

Wednesday 17 October - Deeping Rangers 2 Boston Town 2

Rangers were at Outgang Road to face Boston Town for the second time hoping to gain revenge for the 1 – 0 defeat at Tattershall Road earlier in the season. Jodie Vincent was in goal for Rangers as their no 1 custodian Danny Bircham was unavailable. The game was also late starting as some of the visiting players were delayed. Deeping should have taken the lead on 28 minutes when Mark Baines was put through on goal, but he was dispossessed in the Poachers penalty area. Two minutes later Boston took the lead with a header from Gary Bull who was left unmarked in front of the Rangers goal. The lead was short lived, as J P Duncliffe found the net at the other end on 36 minutes. On 40 minutes Vincent had to make a good save at the feet of a Poachers player to keep the score level. The last 10 minutes of the first half Boston came on strong, playing good passing football as they tried to break down the Deeping defence.The second half started with Rangers soon on the attack. On 65 minutes the Boston keeper Bart Griemink had to be at his best in order to punch away a Danny Matson effort. Five minutes later Matson was again on hand to flash the ball across the Poachers goal mouth with another Rangers player rushing in at the far post. Unfortunately he could not make contact with the ball. On 75 minutes Boston hit a Rangers goal post, and the ball came out to Lee Orry who slotted it back into the net. Deeping were not prepared to give up, and Tunch made his first change of the evening taking off David Cobb and sending on Mark Kingston. Kingston nearly scored with his first touch, shooting across goal and just outside the far post. Three minutes later Tunch made his second change when defender Matt Porter was replaced by striker Mark Lovelace. This gave Rangers a more attacking line up. Deeping pressed forward looking for a breakthrough as they went in search of all 3 points. Deep into stoppage time they managed to salvage a point with Mark Kingston scoring his first Deeping goal.

The Vine Man of the Match was Matt Porter.

Match Ball Sponsor for the game was Brian Carrick Accountants.

Deeping Rangers: Jody Vincent, J P Duncliffe, Matt Porter (Mark Lovelace 80 mins), Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, Mark Baines, Ben Daly, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, David Cobb ( Mark Kingston 77 mins).

Saturday 6 October – Deeping Rangers 1 Woodbridge Town 2

Deeping entertained Suffolk side Woodbridge Town from the Ridgeons League in the First Round of the F A Vase. Just after the half hour Rangers Captain Lee Ellison had to go off injured, and he was replaced by Ben Daly. Scott Woods took the Captains arm band. The first half was fairly even with neither side making a breakthrough, but Deeping created the best chances in the first 45 minutes. On 54 minutes Rangers custodian Danny Bircham made a mistake when he failed to hold a shot from Paul Hart. The resulting ball trickled over the line and in to the net to the delight of the visiting fans. Deeping quickly retaliated and mounted an attack at the other end, resulting in Scott Woods hitting the post with the keeper well beaten. On 63 minutes Rangers made a further change taking off Mark Kingston and bringing on Kevin Ward. Bircham redeemed himself on 70 minutes when he dived full length to keep the ball out of the net. Shortly after Deeping made another change sending on Mark Lovelace in place of Scott Woods. This made a more attacking format to the Rangers line-up. Rangers continued to press forward looking for a goal and on 83 minutes Danny Matson equalised. The home fans went wild. It looked like extra time would be required, and Deeping pressed forward looking to kill the game off. In the dieing minutes of the game Woodbridge substitute Lee O’Neil popped up to score and spoil the party.,/P>

The Vine Man of the Match was Michael Stevenson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Matson, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods (Mark Lovelace 71 mins), Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Mark Kingston (Kevin Ward 63 mins), Lee Ellison (Ben Daly 33 mins), Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz.

Tuesday 2 October - Bourne Town 0 Deeping Rangers 0

Rangers totally dominated this local derby at the Abbey Lawns. It was only poor finishing and the efforts of the Wakes custodian Ben Derbyshire that stopped the score line from being a massacre. As early as 4 minutes Danny Matson held off 2 defenders but put his shot wide with only Derbyshire to beat. Six minutes later Derbyshire turned a Matson effort round the post for a corner. On 13 minutes Mark Kingston ran the full length of the pitch with the ball and into the Wakes penalty area, and Derbyshire was on hand again to keep the ball out. Four minutes later another Matson effort was saved for a corner. The ball was delivered to Kingston who again had his shot saved. At this point Rangers were battering the Bourne defence, and Matson was creating chance after chance. On 26 minutes he held off 2 defenders but shot over the bar, and 7 minutes later Derbyshire saved a Matson shot at the near post. With 5 minutes remaining to half time Sam Bettinson played in Matson who passed across goal to David Cobb who hit the bar from 4 yards with an open goal beckoning. Straight after Cobb had another chance when he rounded the Bourne defence and was one on one with Derbyshire but he shot straight at the keeper. The second half continued in the same vain with the Deeping players pouring forward, and creating chances. On 48 minutes Kingston again made a long run out of the Deeping half and into the Bourne penalty area, but this time his shot was diverted for a corner. Two minutes later Cobb passed across the goal to Matson who only had to tap in, but again Derbyshire managed to save. On the hour mark Matson carved out another chance, and again this was saved for a corner. From the corner kick Sam Bettinson headed wide. Rangers made 2 substitutions as they tried to find a finishing touch, Andy Ellis came on for David Cobb, and Kevin Ward came on for Danny Matson. Deeping were unable to find a killer touch, and their best effort in the dieing minutes came when JP fed the ball to his captain Lee Ellison, but he headed over. With the game ending 0 – 0 it was a good point earned by Bourne Town and 2 more points lost by Rangers

.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Mark Kingston, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson (Kevin Ward 70 mins), David Cobb (Andy Ellis 65 mins) Subs not used: Ben Daly.

Saturday 29 September – Deeping Rangers 2 Raunds Town 1

A penalty in the 94th minute ensured Rangers took all 3 points from this fixture after the Shopmates took an early lead. Rangers first clear cut attempt came in the 22nd minute when Danny Matson headed against the post with an open goal beckoning. 3 minutes later Michael Stevenson also should have scored when he hit the post as well. With 5 minutes remaining until half time Deeping custodian Danny Matson failed to hold a cross, and the Raunds No 8 pounced on the loose ball to put it in the back of the net. In the last minute of the first half Deeping won a free kick 20 yards out, and with a chance to equalise Michael Stevenson blasted over the bar. Rangers made 3 changes in the second half as they went looking for an equaliser. Mark Kingston, Kevin Ward, and new signing Mark Lovelace were all introduced to the fray in place of David Cobb, Sam Bettinson and Scott Woods. This gave Deeping a more attacking look. All most straight away Deeping won a free kick. The ball was delivered into the box, but Lee Ellison headed over. With 8 minutes remaining Michael Stevenson scored to give the home fans some hope of taking something from the game. This was a time for Rangers to show their “never say die” attitude from the previous season, and the fans were not disappointed. On 94 minutes Danny Matson was up ended in the Raunds penalty box, and the referee pointed at the spot. Michael Stevenson kept his cool as he dispatched the spot kick into the back of the net to snatch victory from the face of defeat.

The Vine Man of the match sponsored by the Vine of the High Street Market Deeping was Matt Porter.,/P>

Match sponsor was Maharanis Indian Restaurant of Deeping St James.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Matson, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods (Mark Lovelace 75 minutes), Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, David Cobb (Mark Kingston), Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson (Kevin Ward), Danny Matson, Andy Ellis Subs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz.

Tuesday 25 September – S & L Corby 2 Deeping Rangers 6

About a dozen fans made the trip to Occupation Road to watch Rangers take on the Foundrymen, and they were not disappointed Deeping started the game playing up the slope and Danny Matson had the ball in the net after 5 minutes. The goal was disallowed by the referee to everybody’s surprise, and we were all baffled as to the infringement. Two minutes later Matson was brought down in the S & L penalty area and this time the referee pointed straight at the spot. The Corby players surrounded the referee urging him to change his mind, but after consulting his assistant he stuck to his original decision. Rangers captain Lee Ellison dispatched the ball into the net to give the visitors an early lead. On the half hour Matson claimed his first of the night with a long range effort in off the cross bar, and his second 3 minutes later with a tap in at the far post. At this point Deeping were in total control, and an Andy Ellis shot was diverted round the post by S & L custodian Richard Lavin. The last 5 minutes of the first half was all action. Matson chipped the ball to the far post of the Corby goal with Andy Ellis running in but he could not quite reach the ball. The Foundrymen then broke on a counter attack and won a free kick just inside the Deeping half. The ball was delivered perfectly into the Rangers penalty area where an unmarked S & L player was on hand to volley into the back of the net. The second half saw Rangers playing down the slope. On 47 minutes Scott Woods fed the ball down the wing to J P Duncliffe who passed across the box to Lee Ellison whose header went wide. On the hour mark Tunge and Simmo made their first change of the night taking off David Cobb and sending on Mark Kingston and five minutes later Matson completed his hat-trick. On 70 minutes the Foundrymen pulled one back to make it 2 – 4, but Deeping still looked comfortable and were playing some good football. Two minutes later Tunge and Simmo made their second change of the night when they took off hat-trick hero Matson and introduced new signing Kevin Ward. Ward’s speed and agility immediately caused problems for the home side. On 79 minutes Deeping made their final substitution. Michael Goode came off and Ben Daly entered the fray. A minute later Danny Bircham punted the ball down the pitch and into the S & L penalty area. Ward chased after it and put pressure on the Corby keeper and managed to score on his debut. Rangers were not finished with the action. With a minute remaining Andy Ellis made a solo run with the ball into the S & L penalty area, cutting across goal, before unleashing his shot into the top corner. There was just enough time for the hosts to kick off again before the referee blew his whistle.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode (Ben Daly 79 mins), David Cobb ( Mark Kingston 60 mins), Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson ( Kevin Ward 72 mins) Andy Ellis. Subs not used: Mark Baines

Saturday 22 September - Wellingborough Town 0 Deeping Rangers 0

Most teams in the UCL would consider a draw at Wellingborough Town to be a good result, but poor finishing meant that this was 2 points lost for Rangers. They had enough chances to win this game and gain all 3 much needed points. The Doughboys nearly took the lead as early as the 5th minute when their no 11 broke loose but placed his shot wide. Rangers’ custodian Danny Bircham then had to make a good save to keep his team in the game. On 11 minutes Andy Ellis hit the Wellingborough bar, and the hosts struggled to clear the ball, but Rangers could not force the ball over the line. A minute later Deeping were in serious trouble when a back pass from Michael Goode to Danny Bircham was not cleared properly. Bircham only kicked the ball out as far as a Wellingborough player, but luckily the return ball went outside the post. On 33 minutes Rangers had another chance when David Cobb saw his shot turned round the post by the Doughboys keeper diving full length. Wellingborough had most of possession in the first half, but the second half was totally different with Rangers dominating play and having the most possession. Three minutes into the second half Mark Kingston hit a thunderbolt from close range, and John Hughes in the Doughboys goal did well to dive and turn the ball around the post. On 50 minutes Tung made a double substitution, taking off Lee Howarth and Mark Kingston and bringing on Matt Porter and Danny Matson. This was a surprise substitution as Howarth was having a good game, winning all the balls in the air, and also getting the tackles in where necessary. Five minutes later Hughes made a one handed save from Danny Matson but could not hold the ball. Unfortunately there was nobody on hand to mop up the loose ball. Wellingborough broke on the counter attack and won a corner at the other end. The ball was a good delivery but was then headed over. On the hour mark Bircham had to make a fine double save, first stopping a shot along the floor, and then stopping a long range effort With 5 minutes remaining Deeping had their final chance to steal the 3 points but Danny Matson headed over with the Doughboys keeper stranded in no mans land.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Lee Howarth ( Matt Porter 50 mins), Michael Goode, Andy Ellis, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Mark Kingston (Danny Matson 50 mins). David Cobb. Subs not used: Ben Daly, Nick Jones, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Saturday 8th September Deeping Rangers 2 Cogenhoe United 3

Deeping started this game against a side that were bottom the league with no points, and that had only scored 3 goals. Rangers seem to struggle against lower teams and this was no exception. On the quarter hour Deeping custodian Danny Bircham had to dive full length to his right to turn a shot round the post. A minute later David Cobb scored his first goal of the season to put the home side in front. The lead was short lived, and on 27 minutes Rob Foster equalised for the guests. Shortly after Rangers nearly retook the lead when a Cobb shot was deflected off a defender’s foot when it was going in. Cogenhoe keeper Darren Watts failed to hold the ball and the follow up shot was skyed. With the clock winding down to half time Cogenhoe took the lead with a second goal from Rob Foster. The action was not over, and in injury time Danny Matson was pushed in the Cogenhoe penalty area and the referee pointed straight at the spot. Michael Stevenson stepped up to take the penalty, and sent the keeper the wrong way to equalise. In the break Rangers made a change with Andy Ellis replacing Scott Woods at the back. On 58 minutes Danny Matson tried to round the Cogenhoe keeper but was dispossessed. The ball ran clear to Sam Bettinson but he failed to keep his shot down with the goal beckoning. On the hour Cobb was again in the thick of the action, making visiting keeper Watts dive full length to the left to palm the ball away. Two minutes later Rangers made their second change when Bettinson went off and Nick Jones came on. A minute later Cogenhoe saw a goal bound header saved when Danny Bircham leapt high to save with one hand, with the ball going into the top corner. On 65 minutes Deeping captain Lee Ellison had a free header but the ball went to high and over the bar. With 5 minutes remaining Tunge took Danny Matson off and introduced Ben Daly as they probed for a winner. On 88 minutes Rangers won a free kick just inside the Cogenhoe half. The kick was taken by Andy Ellis who saw his shot dip and hit the bar. With the final kick of the match Cogenhoe won a free kick just outside the Deeping penalty area. Rob Foster dispatched the ball and watched it fly into the net for his hat trick.

The Vine Man of the Match was David Cobb.

The Match Ball Sponsor was Anglia Precision Engineering of Peterborough.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods (Andy Ellis 45 mins), Michael Stevenson, Matt porter, Michael Goode, Mark Kingston, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson (Nick Jones 62 mins), Danny Matson (Ben Daly 85 mins). Subs not used: Lee Howarth, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Saturday 1 September 2007 Deeping Rangers 0 Dereham Town 0

Deeping Rangers welcomed Ridgeons Premier Division side to Outgang Road for this Preliminary Round of the FA Cup. The match was picked by The FA to as the tie of the round, as Deeping won 5 – 0 in the previous round, and Dereham won 12 – 0. The match was recorded so the highlights could be shown on the FA web site, and they were expecting lots of goals. Deeping Rangers dominated the game from the start, but due to poor finishing the scores remained at 0 – 0 at half time. On 65 minutes the visitors had a penalty appeal turned down when one of their players collided with Deeping Custodian Danny Bircham and went down,. The referee waved play on. Play went straight up the other end, and Mark Kingston tore down the wing and flashed the ball across goal with Andy Ellis waiting at the far post. Whilst Ellis stretched for the ball he was unable to reach it. Kingston was a constant thorn in the side of the Dereham defence all game as he repeatedly made penetrating runs wide into their half, before crossing the ball into the Dereham goalmouth. On 70 minutes it was Kingston again who this time set up Sam Bettinson. Kingston ran into the Dereham penalty area and crossed the ball to Bettinson who should have scored, but his shot hit the bar with the goal beckoning. Three minutes later Deeping had a scare when a Derehan player rounded Bircham but a defender was on hand to clear the ball. On 75 minutes Tunge made a substitution when he took off Sam Bettinson and brought on Nick Jones. Rangers continued to create chances and Shaun Marshall in the Dereham goal was the busier of the 2 custodians.On 83 minutes Danny Matson should have put Rangers ahead with the best chance of the game, but he fluffed his shot and the ball went feebly straight at the keeper. Deeping piled on the pressure looking for a winner and with 3 minutes remaining they won a free kick 20 yards out. The home supporters held their breath as Lee Ellison took the kick, but the ball was just over the bar.Deeping could not make a breakthrough, and now have to look forward to a replay at Aldiss Park on Tuesday 4 September.

the Match Sponsor was Briggs Residential Estate Agency of Market Deeping. The mascot was Harry Briggs.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, JP Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Ben Daley, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Mark Kingston, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson ( Nick Jones 75 mins), Danny Matson, Andy Ellis.Subs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz, Stephen Colangelo.

The FA website interviewed both managers after the game

Saturday 25 August 2007   Stotfold                2          Deeping Rangers        1

This game is played on a baking hot day against a team that is made up of most of the Potton side of last year. Stotfold have the first attack of the day, which is followed by play going straight up the other end. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come with play end to end. On 12 minutes Steve Banks has a chance to put the visitors in front. His shot goes through a melee of legs, but Stotfold custodian Brad Gilham gathers easily. On 20 minutes Stotfold win a free kick 30 yards out. The kick is directed straight at goal, and Danny Matson does well to turn the ball round the post. Six minutes later a Stotfold player crosses the ball in front of the Rangers goal. It is not cleared properly and eventually the ball is slammed into the Deeping net by Paul Garrett. The lead is short lived as on the half hour Stotfold keeper Brad Gilham brings down David Cobb in the Stotfold penalty area, and the spot kick is duly dispatched by Rangers captain Lee Ellison. Rangers are in control at this point, and 5 minutes later they win a free kick 20 yards out from the Eagles goal following a foul on Banks. DavidCobb steps up for the kick but the ball flies high over the goal. Deeping then make a substitution. Martin Cundy, who is carrying an injury is taken off, and replaced by Lee Howarth. This gives more height to the Rangers back 4.Shortly after Stotfold again take the lead with a goal from Lee Allinson. Just before half time Tung takes off David Cobb, who is also carrying an injury and brings on Junior Camara.During the half time break the Deeping fans are left puzzling where the next goal will come from.The second half starts, and early on there is an off the ball incident which resulted in the Referee consulting his linesman and booking a playerfrom each side. On 75 minutes Deeping win a corner. The ball is delivered well by Mark Kingston, and Steve Banks leaps highest to head the ball goal wards. Stotfold keeper Brad Gilham gathers the ball up and another chance is missed. Rangers continue with the attack, and a minute later Banks returns the favour and sets up Kingston, but his shot is turned round the post by the athletic keeper.With 12 minutes remaining Tung makes a further substitution. Scott Woods is taken off, and his place is taken by Nick Jones.Both sides continue to battle until the very end. Right at the end Stotfold create a good chance but the shot goes wide.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Scott Woods (Nick Jones 78 mins),Steve Banks, Martin Cundy (Lee Howarth 40 mins), Michael Goode, Mark Kingston, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Andy Ellis, David Cobb ( Junior Camara 45 mins),. Subs not used. J P Duncliffe, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Tuesday 21 August Deeping Rangers 3 Holbeach United 0

Games between these two teams are usually fast and furious with more than their fair share of hard tackles, and this meeting was no different. Also Deeping were looking to kick start their league campaign, and build on their previous performance in the FA Cup. In the first half the action was end to end, although Rangers custodian Danny Bircham was the busier of the two keepers. Bircham was at his best marshalling the defence in front of him and repelling attacks from the Tigers time and again. The only goal of the first half came from Andy Ellis after 13 minutes to the delight of the home fans, but everybody agreed at half time that one goal would not be enough. The second half was 12 minutes old when the second goal came. Holbeach No6 made a nasty tackle on Deeping front man David Cobb and got injured in the process. The referee waited while the player received treatment before showing the yellow card. Cobb delivered the free kick into the Holbeach penalty box for former Tiger Martyn Cundy to score against his old club. Rangers dominated the second half repeatedly tearing the Holbeach defence apart as wave after wave of claret and blue surged forward. This was reminiscent of last seasons Deeping team and the home fans were enjoying it. Mark Baines making his return to the Rangers fold was introduced to the fray on the hour mark in place of Mark Kingston, and 5 minutes later Deeping were awarded a penalty. The spot kick was duly dispatched by Michael Stevenson to give the home side a 3 – 0 lead and the rout was complete. Rangers continued to create chances, and on 70 minutes Andy Ellis should have had a second. He stormed into the Holbeach penalty area with the ball, and the Tigers custodian Nicky Conroy dived at his feet to try to dispossess the Deeping striker. The ball fell loose, and although Ellis reacted quickest he was unable to score with an empty net beckoning. A minute later Michael Stevenson was taken off and Lee Ellison made a welcome return as he came on. The final Rangers substitution was on 81 minutes with Sam Bettinson going off and Nick Jones coming on. The Holbeach players were unable to cope with the speed of Jones as he repeatedly cut through their defence.

The Vine Man of the Match was Rangers custodian Danny Matson for his outstanding performance in the first half.

The match ball was sponsored by Julie Bowell celebrating her 50th birthday, and she received a bouquet of flowers from the club.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson (Lee Ellison 71 mins), Martin Cundy, Michael Goode, Mark Kingston (Mark Baines 60 mins), Steve Banks, Sam Bettinson (Nick Jones 81 mins), Andy Ellis, Dave Cobb.

Saturday 18 August - FA CUP - Deeping Rangers 5 Lincoln Moorlands 0

A STAR SPANGLED PERFORMANCE

FA Cup time again, and Rangers are at home to Lincoln Moorlands, who they played in the same fixture last year. They played them twice last year, coming from behind to knock them out of the FA Cup, and losing to them in the final of the Lincs Cup at Sincil bank.They are therefore hoping to beat them this time and put the record straight. Two of Rangers recent American signings were stars of the show, Steve Banks, who scored a hat trick on his debut and Nick Jones who came on as substitute. As early as 8 minutes Rangers had a scare when Danny Bircham punched the ball out to repel a Moorlands attack, but the ball was not cleared properly. It was eventually blasted over the bar. The first half continued with end to end football, with both sides unable to find the net. On 40 minutes Deeping won a free kick when Danny Matson was brought down 25 yards out from the Lincoln goal. David Cobb stepped up to take the free kick but it was tipped over the bar by Moorlands custodian Leigh Herrick. The visitors were the better team for the first 10 minutes of the second half, and should have scored after 3 minutes, but the shot went wide with only the keeper to beat. The action went straight up the other end when Danny Matson had a chance but he shot straight at the keeper.Rangers slowly turned the game in their favour, and on 52 minutes Matson ran into the Moorlands penalty area and was promptly hacked down just as he went to shoot. The referee pointed straight at the spot. Michael Stevenson stepped up for the spot kick and slammed the ball into the back of the net to the delight of the home fans.

A minute later Deeping doubled their lead when debutant Steve Banks scored his first of the day. At this point Rangers were in total control, and tearing the Moorlands defence apart. On the hour Dave Cobb was again causing problems for the Lincoln defence but his shot was straight at the keeper. Five minutes later Banks should have scored his second when he left the defenders standing and raced into the Moorlands penalty area.. Leigh Herrick did well to dispossess him of the ball, diving at his feet. Banks had to jump over the goalkeeper to avoid a collision. On 70 minutes Deeping made a double substitution when Scott Woods and Nick Jones came on for J P Duncliffe and Danny Matson. This change had instant results when Jones set up Banks for his second of the night. Two minutes later Sam Bettinson was wrestled to the floor and again the referee had no hesitation pointing to the penalty spot. Once again Michael Stevenson stepped up and dispatched the kick into the back of the net. Rangers then made another change taking of Bettinson and bringing on Tom Benjamin. Shortly after this Banks claimed his hat trick to complete the scoring and take Rangers into the next round where they will meet Dereham who edged past Fakenham Town 12 – 0.

The match was sponsored by A G Brown Painting and Decorating

eeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Andy Ellis, Michael Stevenson, Martin Cundy, Michael Goode, J P Duncliffe (Scott Woods 70 mins), Steve Banks, Sam Bettinson (Tom Benjamin 74 mins), Danny Matson (Nick Jones 70 mins), David Cobb. Subs not used: Lee Howarth, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Tuesday 14 August Boston Town 1 Deeping Rangers 0

The Deeping faithful made the short trip to Tattershall Road hoping to see a repeat of last season’s epic battles between these two teams. On the night they came home disappointed as even though Boston were the better team neither side played the same football as last season. Deeping kicked off and were soon on the attack, and on 7 minutes Danny Matson shot wide. The football was then end to end and on 25 minutes a Boston player lobbed Deeping custodian Danny Matson only to see the ball ricochet of the Rangers bar. As the visitors struggled to clear danger, a Boston player was on hand to poke the ball into the net. Ten minutes later Deeping should have equalised when David Cobb hit the Boston bar, but the ball bounced over the goal. With a minute of actual time to go Rangers won a free kick just outside the Poachers 18 yard area. Andy Ellis took the kick and the ball dipped just over the bar when it looked as though it would go in the top corner of the goal. A minute later Deeping had another chance. Mark Kingston played a one two with Danny Matson. He passed the ball to Matson, and then ran on into space. Matson returned the ball, but Poachers custodian Steve Choppen tipped Kingston’s shot over the bar. In the second half Rangers seemed to lose their way. Boston controlled the midfield very well, and Deeping were unable to create any real chances. Tung made 3 changes during the second half as Deeping tried to break Boston down. On 60 minutes Tom Benjamin came on for Sam Bettinson. Fifteen minutes later Matt Porter replaced Lee Howarth, and finally with 10 minutes remaining Andy Ellis went off and Ben Daly came on. With 5 minutes remaining David Cobb had a shot blocked from close range with the ball going off for a corner, but Rangers were unable to make a breakthrough and Boston took all 3 points on the night. Rangers seem to be missing the experience their captain Lee Ellison who is still recovering from a broken arm he picked up in the Lincolnshire Cup Final last season.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Lee Howarth (Matt Porter 75 mins), Michael Goode, Scott Woods, J P Duncliffe. Andy Ellis (Ben Daly 80 mins), Michael Stevenson, Sam Bettinson (Tom Benjamin 60 mins), Danny Matson, Mark Kingston, David Cobb. Subs not used: Wayne Oldaker.

Saturday 11 August Deeping Rangers 1 Long Buckby 1

Deeping Rangers started the defence of their League title with a home game against Long Buckby. The match is sponsored by Steve Anthony of Manor Fisheries, Manor Way, Deeping St James.

Long Buckby bring a large travelling contingent to watch the game on a baking hot sunny day. Deeping dominate the first half, and on 15 minutes Michael Stevenson misses a free header. He has another chance 15 minutes later. The ball is played in to the Buckby penalty area but this time Stevo shins it. On 35 minutes JP Duncliffe delivered the ball to Danny Matson, but he heads over. On 54 minutes Matson heads against the post but Stevo is there to follow up and force the ball into the net to give the home side the lead. At this point Deeping are dominating proceedings and 2 minutes later Mark Kingston makes a long run into the Long Buckby half and passes across goal for Danny Matson who is also running in, but the keeper intercepts the ball. On 70 minutes Long Buckby have a goal disallowed for offside. A minute later Ranger’s win a free kick. The ball is delivered onto the head of Sam Bettinson, and Buckby custodian Martin Murguson does well to leap full length to fingertip the ball around the post. Another chance was lost. On 75 minutes Deeping make a substitution. Kingston is taken off to be replaced by Andy Ellis. Just as the Deeping supporters think their team will take all 3 points Long Buckby equalise. The ball is headed up into the air by Michael Goode, and as it comes down a Buckby player jumps highest to head home. On 90 minutes Long Buckby are reduced to 10 men when Darren Harmon was sent off with a straight red card. All game he had been goading Ranger’s Danny Matson, and both players had been booked 5 minutes earlier. Deeping poured forward in stoppage time looking for an equaliser but they were unable to break through.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Danny Matson, Sam Bettinson, David Cobb, Lee Howarth, Ben Daley, Mark Kingston (Andy Ellis 75 mins) Subs not used: Matt Porter, Tom Benjamin, Wayne Oldaker, Nick Jones.

Saturday 4 August Deeping Rangers 2 Peterborough Sports 0

This was the last pre-season friendly for the First Team and it was another battle of the Champions as they entertained Peterborough Sports, winners of the Peterborough League Premier Division last season. It is also a welcome return to Outgang Road for previous Manager Pat O’Keefe as he now manages Peterborough Sports. The game is controlled by local referee Reg Parker and it is played on a hot sunny day with a warm stiff breeze. Reserve player Eliot Dempsey, making his first First Team appearance puts Rangers in front with a goal on 25 minutes. Three minutes later Mark Kingston hit the Sports post with a 30 yard volley. On 31 minutes the Sports keeper made a big mistake when he passed the ball out from his goal to Mark Kingston. The Rangers player tried to chip the keeper but the custodian managed to get a hand to the ball. Deeping dominated the match throughout, and the visitors only created one clear chance in the game. With 20 minutes remaining Rangers doubled their score when Sam Bettinson flicked the ball on and it was diverted into the net by a Sports player for an own goal. The game finished 2 – 0.

Tuesday 31 July Deeping Rangers 1 Stamford Town 3

Stamford were soon on the attack and took the lead on 8 minutes, Leon Mettam turned in the Rangers box and fired home. The lead was short lived and 7 minutes later Deeping restored parity when the ball was headed across the Stamford goal for Danny Matson to head in. Stamford continued to dominate the first half and won numerous corners. The score remained even at half time. The second half was a different story and Rangers were soon on the attack. On 50 minutes Matson delivered the ball into the Stamford box for Sam Bettinson to head wide. Five minutes later play was at the other end and the Stamford No 14 clipped the Deeping keeper with the goal at his mercy but the ball went wide. On 70 minutes Rangers threatened again when David Cobb picked the ball up in his own area, made along run down the right wing and passed the ball in to the middle for Benjamin, who shot wide with only the keeper to beat. Deeping kept up the pressure and 2 minutes later new signing Lee Howarth leapt above everybody in the Stamford box to head the ball against the bar. On 75 minutes Tony Battersby hit a thundering volley to give Stamford the lead, and in the dieing minutes Andy Toyne hit their third. Rangers were the better side in the second half, and played some good football and would have scored more but for poor finishing.

Wednesday 25 July Holwell Sports 1 Deeping Rangers 1

On 10 minutes Thomas Benjamin should have put Rangers ahead but his shot hit the post. Rangers dominated the first half and battered the opposition, creating numerous chances but they could not convert them into goals. On the half hour Danny Matson had his shot palmed onto the bar by the Holwell keeper, and 5 minutes later Matson again carved out another chance for himself but shot straight at the keeper. As half timed loomed it looked like it would be 0 – 0 at the break, but Holwell mounted an attack and their No 9 rounded Danny Bircham to put the ball in to the back of the net. Rangers made changes at half time taking off Danny Bircham, and putting Jamie Lowndes in goal. In the second half Holwell Sports dominated the midfield, and both sides continued to create chances, but neither side could make a break through. On the hour Michael Stevenson saw his shot turned round the Holwell post as he failed to get any power behind the ball. Five minutes later Dave Simpson made further changes to his Deeping team as he took off Ben Daly and Mark Kingston, and introduced Reserve Team players Wayne Oldaker and Matt Ayliff to the fray. At the same time Tom Benjamin swapped to the other side of the field. On 75 minutes Deeping won a free kick and Ayliff delivered the ball to Benjamin who rounded the keeper but the ball was intercepted by a Holwell player. Just as we thought Rangers were not going to find the net Benjamin again broke through into the Holwell penalty area and was pulled back. The referee had no hesitation pointing to the spot and the penalty kick was duly dispatched by Michael Stevenson. Supporters on both sides agreed a draw was a fair result, and both teams had a good work out.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham ( Jamie Lowndes 45 mins), J P Duncliffe, Andy Ellis, Martin Cundy, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson, Thomas Benjamin, Ben Daly (Matt Ayliff 65 mins), Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Mark Kingston (Wayne Oldaker 65 mins).

Saturday 21 July Deeping Rangers 5 Deeping Sports 0

This is a long awaited local derby between 2 Championship winning teams. Rangers having won the United Counties League Premier Division last season, and Sports winning the Peterborough League Division 1 gaining promotion to the Premier Division for the first time. Both teams have new players on show, and Rangers are soon on the attack with David Cobb shooting over the bar after 10 minutes, with the goal at his mercy. Two minutes later Rangers hit the post from a free kick as they continued to apply the pressure. Rangers continued to dominate the early exchanges and in the 29th minutes the deadlock was broken with a goal from Andy Ellis which just dipped under the bar. Three minutes later Rangers won a corner and it was Michael Stevenson who scored to make it 2 – 0. David Cobb was a constant nuisance to the Sports defence and he carved out another chance for himself but again saw the ball fly over the bar. With 10 minutes remaining it was Sam Bettinson’s turn to score as he headed home to make it 3 – 0. Rangers were in total control at this point and a minute later Danny Matson claimed his first to extend the lead. Five minutes into stoppage time he nearly scored a second when he picked the ball up just inside his half and passed two Sports plauyers before shooting over the bar. The second half continued in the same vain and a minute after the restart Matson claimed his second with an overhead bicycle kick into the back of the Sport’s net. The two teams made various changes in the second half, and even saw substituted Rangers players playing for the other side as Sports were short on substitute. This made for a very interesting game but neither side could make any further breakthrough and the score finished 5 – 0 to Rangers.

 

2006/07 Summary

Date	Comp.	Opponent	Home/Away	Result (Deeping first)
Sat 15 Jul	Friendly	Lincoln Moorlands	home	0-1
Sat 29 Jul	Friendly	Soham	home	0-2
We 2 Aug	LFP Cup	Bourne Town	home	3-1
Sat 5 Aug	Friendly	Stamford Town	home	0-2
Tu 8 Aug	LFP Cup Final	Spalding	away	2-0
Sa 12 Aug	League	Cogenhoe Utd	away	2-1
Tu 15 Aug	League	S&L Corby	home	3-0
Sa 19 Aug	FA Cup	Lincoln Moorlands	home	5-4
Tu 22 Aug	League	Yaxley	away	1-1
Sa 25 Aug	League	Raunds Town	away	2-1
Sat 2 Sep	FA Cup	Nantwich Town	away	2-1
Sat 9 Sep	League	St Neots	home	5-0
Tu 12 Sep	League	Bourne Town	home	3-1
Sa 16 Sep	FA Cup	Rugby	away	1-4
Sa 23 Sep	FA Vase	Yaxley	home	3-1
Sat 30 Sep	Lincs Cup	Winterton Rangers	home	4-2
Tue 3 Oct	League	Boston Town	away	2-1
Sat 7 Oct	FA Vase	Wroxham Town	away	1-4
Sat 14 Oct	League	Wellingborough	home	1-1
Tu 17 Oct	League	S&L Corby	away	5-1
Sa 21 Oct	League Cup	Northampton ON	away	4-1
Tue 24 Oct	League	Stotfold	away	1-1
Sa 28 Oct	League	Wootton Blue X	home	2-0
Tue 31 Oct	League	Holbeach Utd	home	4-0
Sat 4 Nov	league	Buckingham Town	home	3-0
Tues 7 Nov	hinchingbrooke Cup	Wellingborough	away	1-0
Sa 11 Nov	league	St Neots Town	away	1-1
Tu 14 Nov	league cup	Bourne	home	2-1
Sa 18 Nov	league	Buckingham Town	away	4-0
Tu 28 Nov	Lincs Senior Trophy	Sleaford	home	2-1
Sa 2 Dec	league	Wellingborough	away	1-1
Sa 9 Dec	league	Holbeach	away	1-0
Tu 12 Dec	league	Stotfold	home	10-0
Sa 16 Dec	league	Raunds Town	home	2-1
Sa 23 Dec	league	Long Buckby	home	2-0
Tu 26 Dec	league	Blackstones	away	2-1
Sa 20 Jan	league	Newport Pagnell	home	5-1
Sa 27 Jan	league	Northampton Spencer	home	1-0
Sa 27 Jan	hinchingbrooke cup	Arlesey Athletic	away	3-1
3 February	UCL	Ford Sports	home	2-0
6 February	League Cup	Desborough Town	home	1-2
14 February	UCL	Bourne Town	away	1-0
17 February	UCL	St Ives	away	2-0
20 February	UCL	Boston T	home	4-1
10 March	UCL	Desborough	home	4-1
13 March	UCL	Yaxley	home	0-1
17 March	UCL	Wootton Blue X	away	2-0
20 March	Hinchingbrooke Cup	Yaxley	home	3-2
24 March	UCL	Cogenhoe	home	3-0
31 March	UCL	Potton Utd	home	1-1
7 April	UCL	Ford Sports	away	3-0
9 April	UCL	Blackstones	home	1-0
11 April	UCL	Potton Utd	away	1-1
14 April	UCL	Long Buckby	away	3-1
17 April	UCL	Northampton Spencer	away	2-0
21 April	UCL	Desborough	away	0-3
25 April	Lincs Senior Trophy Final	Lincoln Moorlands	Lincoln City	1-3
21 April	UCL	Newport Pagnell	away	0-1
1 May	Hinchingbrooke Cup SF	Barton Rovers	away	2-0
11 May	Hinchingbrooke Cup Final	St Ives	St Neots	0-2

Match Reports

15 July Deeping Rangers 0 Lincoln Morlands 1

Deeping Rangers started their pre-season campaign with a home fixture against their forthcomiing FA Cup opponents Lincoln Morlands. A crowd of about 70 supporters gathered in the sunshine to see what the new team was like. The first half was fairly even, with the best effort falling to the visitors forcing a flying save from the Deeping keeper. Korkmaz made a number of changes at half time so that he could look at as many of the new players as possible. Both sides seemed to struggle in the heat and just as it looked as if the game would finish 0 - 0 Morlands scored with 15 minutes to go. This goal was to be decisive and whilst Rangers tried for an equaliser in the last 15 minutes they could not breah through the resolute Morlands defence.

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28 July Deeping Rangers 0 Soham Town Rangers 2

As the first team management team were away their place was taken in the dugout by Reserves Manager Phil Jarman and Under 18's Manager Dave Vaughan. This was also the first game of the season on the first team pitch. The match started at a fast pace in the hot conditions and the first chance fell early to Soham Town Rangers. The home side slowly started to exert pressure and midway through the first half were in control. Soham were then forced to make a change when one of their players was injured following a clash of heads, but I am pleased to say he was able to return to the game later wearing a big green bandage. On 38 minutes the Rangers keeper made a reflex one handed save, but he had no chance with the rebound which was snapped up by a Soham player to give them the lead 1 - 0. From the restart Deeping were on the attack and forced two corners in succession but were unable to find the back of the net. Very few chances were created in the second half but on 72 minutes the home goal was breached again when a Soham player rounded the keeper and slotted home from an angle. During the last 18 minutes Deeping were unable to create any real scoring chances and the game finished with the visitors winning 2 - 0.

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13 August Cogenhoe 1 Deeping Rangers 2

Deeping Rangers started this years League campaign under new Manager Tunkay Korkmaz with a difficult away fixture against Cogenhoe. Rangers kicked off the match, but the hosts were soon in charge. However Deeping battled back into the game during the first 15 minutes to restore parity. In fact it was Deeping that nearly took an early lead when keeper John Feetham punted the ball into the Cogenhoe penalty area. A Deeping forward was first to the ball but went down under a challenge bringing cries for a penalty which fell on deaf ears. Throughout the first half Rangers continued to play a direct approach down the middle of the pitch in contrast to the wide game they played in their pre-season game against Bourne Town. Although they caused problems for the Cogenhoe defense they could not get the final ball into the box for their strikers. John Feetham was the busiest keeper of the half but most shots were straight at him and he did not have a difficult save to make. Deepings best chance of the first half fell to Andy Ellis almost on the stroke of half time, but the Cogenhoe custodian Ricky Hughes managed to hold the ball. Cogenhoe then broke away and worked the ball up the pitch with good short passes which finished with Scott Goodacre putting the ball in the Rangers net to give the hosts the lead at half time.

Rangers started the second half brightly and on 56 minutes the ever dangerous Andy Ellis was left unmarked with a clear view at goal from close range from where he slotted in the equaliser. This lifted the visiting supporters who urged their team on for more. After 64 minutes Deeping made their first substitute when John-Paul Dunciffe was taken off to be replaced by Michael Stevenson. This brought immediate results with a goal from David Cobb to give the visitors the lead. A period of Cogenhoe pressure followed with numerous corners, but the Deeping defended well repelling attack after attack. David Cornell was especially solid clearing the ball on numerous occasions. With 12 minutes remaining Rangers made their second substitution when Matt Porter came on to replace Richard Challinor. Cogenhoe failed to make any further progress against the visitors, and Rangers claimed their first points of the season with a good win in a game they lost last year.

Deeping Rangers: John feetham, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Tom Liberatori, Lee Ellison, Scott Woods, JP Duncliffe, Richard Challinor, Andy Ellis, David Cobb, Ryan Franklin, John Stead, Danny Bircham, Michael Stevenson

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15 August Deeping Rangers 3 S & L Corby 0

Deeping Rangers are 2nd in the League after this home clash against S & L Corby. The hosts started the game looking to consolidate their fine start to the season and Andy Ellis nearly opened the scoring after 3 minutes forcing a fine one handed save from S & L custodian Andy Geoghegan who managed to tip the ball over the bar. After 17 minutes Rangers had another chance when Ellis crossed the ball across goal but nobody connected. On 31 minutes John-Paul Duncliffe put Deeping in front with a goal at his second attempt with the first shot bouncing of the keeper and straight to JP's feet for the follow up. Three minutes later Rangers should have doubled but Geoghegan did well to save the shot from David Moseley. A minute later the ball was in the net and the home fans thought they were 2 up but the referee adjudged it to be hand ball. Two minutes from time Deeping had a corner which Michael Goode headed just over, but shortly after in stoppage time JP popped up for his second of the night.

The second half started as the first had ended with the home side on the attack. The visitors were starting to lose the plot and the referee was busy throughout the half giving yellow cards.On 65 minutes S & L were reduced to 10 men when their no 7 was dismissed for a second yellow for impeding John Feetham in the Deeping goal. Rangers took immediate advantage of their numerical supremacy and a minute later Lee Ellison was provider for Stuart King to make it 3 - 0. With 15 minutes remaining Deeping made a substitution when Player manager Tuncay Korkmaz came on for Michael Stephenson. With 8 minutes remaining John Feetham was forced to make his only real save of the game to keep out an S & L header from close range. In the closing minutes of stoppage time Andy Ellis nearly made it four when Geoghegan was forced to dive full length to tip the ball round the post. The game ended 3 - 0 and another 3 points to keep the Korkmaz Barmy Army of Deeping fans happy.

The man of the match award was presented by the landlord of the Vine in Market Deeping to J P Duncliffe.

Deeping Rangers : John Feetham, Michael goode, David Cornell, Tom Liberatori, Lee Ellison, Scott Woods, J P Duncliffe, Stuart King, Andy Ellis, Sam Bettinson, Tuncay Korkmaz, David Cobb, Ryan Franklin, Richard Challiner, John Stead, David Moseley, Danny Bircham

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19 August FA Cup Deeping Rangers 5 Lincoln Moorlands 4

Deeping Rangers progressed to the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup following this exciting match at Outgang Road. As early as the fifth minute the visitors had a chance to take the lead with a freekick 20 yards out but the ball went out for a corner. Three minutes later Deeping were in front with a goal from John-Paul Duncliffe, and a minute later David Moseley should have doubled the lead but Leigh Herrick saved in the Moorlands goal for a corner. The action then became end to end with both teams having chances at each end, but the next goal went to the visitors with an equaliser from Scott Coupland. Straight from the restart Deeping were on the attack and won a freekick just outside the Moorlands penalty area, from where David Cobb hit the bar with Leigh Herrick being unsighted. It was then the Moorlands turn to attack and their captain Nick Robinson fired his shot over the bar. The next goal was scored by David Moseley following a David Cobb pass, on 32 minutes for Rangers to regain the lead. On 39 minutes there was an ugly altercation when a visiting player hit a Deeping player in the face. Although everybody in the crowd expected Mr Buhse the referee to produce a red card, he deemed it only worthy of a yellow. Shortly after Moorlands had a freekick when the ball was delivered to Rick Ranshaw for him to equalise. Three minutes later the visitors should have taken the lead when they got behind the Deeping defence but Dean Dye finished poorly putting his shot wide. Just before half time Scott Coupland scored his second to give Moorlands the lead at the break.

The visitors were quickest out of the blocks at the start of the second half and quickly increased their lead with a goal from their captain Nick Robinson to make it 2 - 4. Rangers were not prepared to give up without a fight and on 66 minutes Lee Ellison reduced the deficit to 3 - 4 and give the home fans hope of getting a result from the game. Then followed a period of Deeping pressure during which an Andy Ellis freekick hit the near side post. With 15 minutes remaining came another controversial decision from an assistant referee when he flagged Andy Ellis offside when he was through on goal. Fans from both sides thought he was onside and the assistant had got it wrong. Five minutes later Moorlands were reduced to 10 men when Dean Dye received his second yellow card. For the second time in less than a week Deeping found themselves playing against 10 men and they were prepared to make the numerical superiority count. With 6 minutes remaining Moseley claimed his second of the game to equalise, and three minutes later the ever dangerous Ellis made it 5 - 4 to Rangers to snatch victory at the very end. At that point the home fans went wild with delight.

In the next round Deeping have a long trip away to Nantwich on the 2nd September.

Man of the match was Lee Ellison.

Deeping Rangers John Feetham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Tom Liberatori, Lee Ellion (captain), J P Duncliffe, Andy Ellis, Stuart King, David Cobb, David Moseley, Tuncay Korkmaz, Sam Bettinson, Matt Porter, Gary Roddis, Danny Bircham.

Lincoln Moorlands Leigh Herrick Kev Ryan, Ross Fleming, Wayne Hallcro, Nick Robinson, (captain), Rick Ranshaw, Scott coupland, Nick Mason, Craig Bridge, Darren Dye, Graeme Hodgson, Dean Dye, Chris Porter, G Staff

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23 August Yaxley 1 Deeping Rangers 1

The 2 teams entered this match with totally opposing records in the league so far this season. Deeping having won their 2 opening games and Yaxley having lost all of their games. Deeping made a bright start putting Yaxley under pressure from the off. The hosts slowly got back in to the game but Rangers defended well every time they came forward. The first half finished goaless, and in the second half it was Yaxley that started the stronger. On 63 minutes Stuart King was brought down in the Yaxley penalty box for Lee Ellison to score from the spot kick. Shortly after King was substituted, being replaced by Sam Bettinson. Four minutes later David Moseley should have doubled the lead following some good passing movement from Deeping but he shot over. This was followed shortly by a chance at the other end when Danny Bircham had to be at his best to save when one on one with a Yaxley player. Rangers then made two quick substitutions in succession when Richard Challinor replaced Tom Liberatori, and then Tunkay Korkmaz came on for Michael Stevenson. As the match went into the final seconds it looked as though Deeping would take all three points but Yaxley made one final attack. This resulted in the hosts being awarded a penalty for hand ball and Yaxley Captain Ricky Hailstone scored from the spot with the last kick of the match. The Rangers fans were disappointed to be robbed at the last minute, but took solace in the fact that this was a point gained from a game they lost last season.

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9 September Deeping Rangers 5 St Neots Town 0

Deeping Rangers moved to the top of the Eagle Bitter United Counties League Premier Division following this win over St Neots Town. Deeping started the game at a fast pace and Sam Bettinson hit the St Neots goal post in the first minute. Four minutes later David Cobb delivered a low cross to Stevenson who flicked the ball just outside the post.Rangers relentless attack continued and shortly after J P Duncliffe was in a position to shoot for goal but chose to pass the ball and a scoring chance was lost. The visitors first chance came on 9 minutes when they won a freekick but the ball was headed over. It did not take long for Deeping to take the lead and on 11 minutes Duncliffe crossed for Dave Cornell to head home. Ten minutes later a great chip to the far post by Gary Roddis allowed Duncliffe to bury the ball and give Deeping a 2 - 0 lead. The hosts should have increased the lead on 28 minutes when a slide rule pass from Cobb was unlucky not to put Moseley in for goal. Two minutes later Moseley got on the score sheet following a superb pass from Duncliffe which allowed Moseley to lob the advancing Martyn Patching in the St Neots goal. Moseley should have scored his second four minutes later but Patching made a great save to keep the ball out.

The second half started as the first ended with Rangers in total control. On 58 minutes Tunkay Korkmaz made his first substitution of the day when Sam Bettinson came off to be replaced by Danny Matson. As he did at Nantwich Matson was immediately in on the action and 5 minutes later he scored his first to give Deeping a 4 - 0 lead, and with 20 minutes remaining he scored his second to make the scoreline convincing at 5 - 0. Rangers then made their second substitution when Gary Roddis went off to be replaced by Wayne Oldaker. This was followed 10 minutes later with another substitution with Tuncay Korkmaz replacing Michael Stevenson. With 5 minutes remaining St Neots were handed a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty for holding a player in the box. Deepings custodian Danny Bircham dived to his right to tip the spot kick round the post for a corner and preserve the clean sheet. This was a convincing win by Rangers, who play a local derby against Bourne Town on Tuesday 12th September when the match sponsor will be The Vine Pub from Market Deeping.

Man of the match was Michael Goode who was presented with a bottle by Kelvin from The Vine, Market Deeping.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson (Tuncay Korkmaz 83), David Cornell, Michael Goode, John-Paul Duncliffe, Gary Roddis (Wayne Oldaker 72), David Moseley, Sam Bettinson (Danny Matson 63), David Cobb. Subs not used: John Feetham, Tom Liberatore.

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13 September - Deeping Rangers 3 Bourne Town 1

Deeping Rangers remain the only unbeaten side in the Eagle Bitter United Counties League Premier Division after this local derby at Outgang Road. The largest crowd of the season watched this match which was sponsored by Kelvin Neal from The Vine in Market Deeping. The game started at a fast pace with both sides playing good football. On 14 minutes Rangers should have scored when John-Paul Duncliffe passed to Lee Ellison who set up Andy Ellis, but he shot wide. Six minutes later The Wakes won a corner and Deeping custodian Danny Bircham leapt to catch the ball. He then punted the ball up field where Danny Matson who was making his first start for Rangers was waiting just inside the Bourne half. He turned to lose his marker and chased after the ball towards the onrushing Ben Derbyshire. Matson was first to the ball and chipped the advancing Bourne keeper to put the ball in the net. On the half hour Keith Gray had a shot go just wide of the Deeping goal.On 37 minutes Sam Bettinson fired his shot through a mellee of players to double the lead for Deeping. Following this the Wakes were back on the attack and had the Rangers goal under pressure but they could not make a breakthrough. With the last shot of the half Matt Porter fired his shot over the Bourne bar.

The second half was 10 minutes old when Deeping increased their lead even further with a looping header from David Cornell over the head of Ben Derbyshire. A minute later Bourne made a double substitution when Miles Mason and Jimmy McDonnell replaced Jamie McKay and Robbie Pearce. On 70 minutes Rangers were awarded a penalty but after consulting his assistant Referee Peter Goodhand changed his mind and awarded a freekick for an earlier infringement. Five minutes later Deeping made a substitution when J P Duncliffe went off to be replaced by Gary Roddis. At the same time Bourne brought on Ben Stainsby for Martin Wormall. The substitutions were not over and with 10 minutes to go Rangers made another change when Morrocan Younis Tajer was introduced to the game in place of Sam Bettinson. A minute later the Wakes were awarded a penalty when a player was brought down and the spot kick was duly dispatched by Miles Mason. The action was still not over and with 5 minutes remaining Tajer should have scored but put his shot just wide of the post. The final score was 3 - 1 to Rangers who extended their lead at the top of the league.</>

The Vine Man of the Match was Danny Matson.

Deeping Rangers:Danny Bircham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison (Captain), Danny Matson, J P Duncliffe (Gary Roddis 75), Sam Bettinson (Younis Tajer 80), Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Andy Ellis. Subs not used: John Feetham, Tom Liberatore, Tuncay Korkmaz.

Bourne Town: Ben Derbyshire, Aaron Rideout (Captain), Jason Gough, Tim Quy, Simon Barrick, Johnny Currall, Keith Gray, Robbie Pearce (Jimmy McDonnell 56), Jamie McKay (Miles Mason 56), Scott Musgrove, Martin Wormall (Ben Stainsby 80). Subs not used John Edwards, Matt Phillips.

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16 September Rugby Town 4 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping Rangers great FA Cup adventure ended at the 1st Qualifying Round this year, against a team that plays 2 leagues above them in the BGB Southern League Premier Division. The score line did not do the visitors justice as they fought well and deseved something from the game. Rugby Town started the brighter team and were on the attack from the kick off. After only 5 minutes they thought the had scored but the ball had not crossed the line. Rangers were soon on the counter attack and forced the action to the other end where David Moseley playing his last game for Deeping had the first chance for the visitors on 10 minutes but he missed the net. On 13 minutes Danny Bircham had to dive full length to keep the ball out, but two minutes later Rugby took the lead with a goal from Danny Hall. The visitors continued to press as the game ebbed and flowed and they won their first corner five minutes form half time. The ball was delivered well and Moseley with his back to the goal turned but put his shot wide.

At half time Referee A Parker withdrew with a thigh injury and appeals for an FA qualified official echoed around the ground on the tannoy. Rangers Secretary Paul Smith stepped in to fill the void and ran the line in the second half but the restart was delayed for over half an hour.

Jason Taylor doubled the lead for the Valley when Rangers concede a soft goal early in the second half. However in true Deeping fashion they were not prepared to give up and the visitors were immediately on the attack and 5 minutes later the deficite was reduced with a goal from Michael Stevenson. At this point Deeping were having more of the play and looked the better team. Rangers then made a substitute bringing on David Cobb for J P Duncliffe as they looked for an equaliser. It was the hosts that scored again on 66 minutes with Delroy Gordon heading in at the back post from a corner. On 75 minutes Danny Bircham again pulled off a great save stopping a thuinderbolt shot with his body. at this point Deeping made another substitution when striker Andy Ellis joined the fray in place of Player Manager Tuncay Korkmaz, as Rangers made the team a more attacking formation. With 8 minutes remaining Rangers made their third substitution when Tom Liberatore came on for Sam Bettinson. The game was all action to the end and on 85 minutes Birchett again dived full length to his left to palm the ball away with one hand. Right on the final whistle Jason Taylor scored the fourth goal for Rugby Town to inflict Deeping's first defeat of the seson in all competitions. It was a very deflated Deeping contingent who made their way home on the coach, but they now have to pick themselves up to face Yaxley at Outgang Road next Saturday in the FA Vase.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Michael Goode, Scott Woods, J P Duncliffe (David Cobb 54), Lee Ellison (c), Sam Bettinson, David Moseley, Danny Matson, Matt Porter, Michael Stevenson (Tom Liberatore 82), Tuncay Korkmaz Andy Ellis 75). Subs not used John Feetham, Gary Roddis.

Below is the winners view of the game

Rugby Town ensured a relatively smooth passage into the next round of the FA Cup with a comfortable First Qualifying Round win over UCL Premier leaders Deeping Rangers. Billy Jeffrey was forced to make one change to the side with Ross Harris making his first start since the first game of the season, as he moved to right back with Aaron Stringfellow slotting into midfield in place of Tom Breward, who was made unavailable for the cup tie by Nuneaton. Craig Herbert also returned in place of Andy Commander in the centre of defence. Valley started brightly and had plenty of early pressure as Delroy Gordon saw his effort cleared off the line. It wasn't surprising to see Rugby take the lead as Jason Taylor's cross found Danny Hall who smashed in a low shot from 20 yards. Deeping played with an adventurous 4-3-3 formation leaving all three forwards up field at all times, but they were starved of opportunities although the visitors could have equalised when the ball bounced in the box following Rangers' first corner kick but (Sam Ellison's!) acrobatic effort from close range didn't find the target. Half time was to prove an eventful affair with the referee picking up a calf injury meaning one of the Deeping officials had to take over as assistant referee in an official re-shuffle at the break. This delayed the game by half an hour and when play got underway Rugby doubled their lead with Craig Herbert's floated free-kick finding the head of Jason Taylor, who beat the goalkeeper to the ball and looped the ball into the gaping net. Deeping got themselves a foothold in the game only a few minutes later after a long ball was nodded down to Michael Stevenson who unleashed a powerful low drive, leaving Farhad Afandiyev with little chance. However, Rugby restored their two-goal cushion with ease as Hall's deep corner found Delroy Gordon unmarked at the far post, and the centre half netted his first goal of the season with a simple but powerful header. Valley wrapped things off in the final minute with young substitute Matt Wells causing problems down the right hand side before sending in a low cross which was coolly turned in by Jason Taylor, for his second of the game.

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FA Vase 23 September 2006 Deeping Rangers 3 Yaxley 1

Market Deeping Town Mayor Councillor Reg Howard was guest of honour as a crowd of 122 watched Deeping Rangers bounce back from last weeks defeat in the FA Cup at Rugby with a win against local rivals Yaxley in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Carlsberg Vase. Within the first 5 minutes Ian Edge won a freekick for Yaxley 25 yards out from the Rangers goal but the ball was blasted high over the bar. The action then reverted to the other end and on 8 minutes the ball was passed across in front of the Yaxley goal and Michael Stevenson headed the hosts in front. A minute later the score should have been 2 - 0 when the ball was whipped in to the Yaxley box but no Deeping player could get a head to the ball. Rangers continued to dominate and it wasn't until 25 minutes that Yaxley had another chance when their shot was tipped round the post for a corner. Just after the half hour Deeping were awarded a penalty for a foul in the box, and the spot kick was dispatched by team captain Lee Ellison. The teams went in at half time with the score at 2 - 0.

The second half started brightly for Yaxley, and they caught Rangers napping in the 47th minute allowing Lee Blewitt to reduce the deficit and get the visitors back in to the game. Both sides then pressed for another goal, Yaxley to try and equalise and Deeping to try and kill the game. It was the hosts that managed to make the break through and on 62 minutes Rangers were awarded a corner. John-Paul Duncliffe delivered the ball into the Yaxley box where Dave Cornell rushed in to slam the ball home for his 3rd goal of the season and Deeping's 3rd goal of the game. Three mninutes later Rangers new boy Mark Baines made his debut when he replaced Duncliffe. On 68 minutes Yaxley came close to pulling a goal back when they won a freekick about 30 yards out near the byline. Danny Bircham had to stretch and leap upwards to tip the ball over the bar. Yaxley then made a sustitution introducing Simon Acton and taking off front man Ian Edge. With 10 minutes remaining Deeping made their second substitution with Andy Ellis going on for Danny Matson, and 5 minutes later they made their final change and Wayne Oldacre replace Sam Bettinson. Right at the end Rangers should have increased their lead when Mark Baines set up David Cobb who raced into the Yaxley box with only the keeper to beat. Yaxley custodian Jody Vincent managed to block the shot and the ball went out for a corner. The game ended 3 - 1 to Rangers and they can now look forward to an away day at Wroxham in the next round, on 7th October.

The Vine man of the match award was presented by Kelvin Neale to David Cornell.

Deeping Rangers would like to thank Cummins Uk Ltd for being match sponsors.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Biecham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison, Danny Matson (Andy Ellis 80 mins), John-Paul Duncliffe (Mark Baines 66 mins), David Cobb, Sam Bettinson (Wayne Oldaker 85 mins), Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter. Subs not used Tunkay Korkaz and John feetham.

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30 September Lincolnshire Cup - Deeping Rangers 4 Winterton Rangers 2

Deeping Rangers entertained Winterton Rangers in the Lincolnshire Senior Cup at Outgang Road. When these two sides last met it was in the quarter finals of the same competition in October 2004 when Winterton Rangers triumphed winning 1 - 0. Both sides started this game being undefeated in their respective leagues. Winterton Rangers being 4th in the Northern Counties East Division One with a 100% record. Deeping Manger Tuncay Korkmaz used this game to rest some of his regular players.As early as the 5th minute Andy Ellis should have fired the home side ahead when John Feetham punted the ball up pitch and Andy out ran his marker but shot straight at Neil Crofts in the Winterton goal when one on one. Two minutes later he had another chance when he was put in again. On 20 minutes Neil Crofts handled the ball out side the area, but Deeping failed to capitalise and put the free kick wide. Five minutes later Ellis had another chance but shot straight at the keeper.The first half carried on in the same vain with Deeping creating chances and dominating play but failing to find the net until the 40th minute when Michael Stevenson put the hosts ahead.

The second half started and within 2 minutes Deeping won a free kick about 22 yards out from the Winterton goal which Ellis hit over the wall and also over the bar. On 51 minutes Winterton Rangers equalised from a quickly taken free kick by Danny Clark. On the hour Deeping took off David Cob and introduced Sam Bettinson. The Second half continued with the visitors being the better side and creating the better chances. On 70 minutes a Mark Baines header crashed against the bar, but Deeping could not scramble the rebound in to the goal. A minute later Baines was taken off and replaced by Jon-Paul Duncliffe, as Deeping went looking for a winner. This quickly produces results as Scott Woods fed Andy Ellis whose pass in to the box found captain Lee Ellison who restored the host teams lead. This was quickly followed by Danny Matson hitting a Winterton goal post with his shot. Just as the game looked safe for Deeping Winterton equalised with 5 minutes remaining from an overhead bicycle kick by Andy Holt. The crowd then settled down for extra time, but there was to be another twist to the game. The referee Chris Giles pointed to a corner for the hosts but saw his assistants flag was up. After consultation he awarded Deeping a penalty for hand ball and the spot kick was duly dispatched by Lee Ellison. This decision inscensed the Winterton team and their bench proceeded to argue with the referee and hold up the game. The final outcome of which resulted in Winterton's Manager being sent from the dugout. In the final minute of the game Danny Matson made it 4 - 2 with a brilliant solo goal, running into the visitor's box and slotting the ball past the keeper.

The Vine man of the match was Michael Stevenson.

Deeping's opponents in the next round are not yet known. Next week Deeping Rangers are on their travels again when they visit Ridgeons Premier League side Wroxham in the first round proper of the FA Vase. A coach has been booked which leaves Outgang Road at 9.45. Anybody interested in travelling on the coach please contact Robin Crowson on 07977971796 or meet at Deeping Sports Club on the day.

Deeping Rangers: John Feetham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Tom Liberatore, Lee Ellison (captain), Danny Matson, David Cobb (Sam Bettinson 70), Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines (J P Duncliffe 71), Andy Ellis. Subs not used: Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Tuncay Korkmaz

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3 October Boston Town 1 Deeping Rangers 2

In an even first half of end to end football both sides created chances and saw efforts cleared off the goal line. A Rangers corner in the 10th minute saw Korkmaz win the ball but his header was wide of target. A Boston effort in the 13th minute saw Bircham save from a Nuttell header. A freekick, for a foul on Bettinson, saw Ranger's Ellis crash the ball against the cross bar and from the following play Ellis got past the fullback and saw his cross flash across the front of goal. Another Rangers corner saw Korkmaz set up Bettinson whose volleyed effort was cleared off the line. Boston had their turn and from a header from Nuttell the Rangers keeper pushed the ball against the bar and away to safety. The half ended with both teams still playing swift end to end football.

The 2nd half started with a bang, Rangers taking a 2 - 0 lead within 6 minutes. First, Sam Bettinson rose to head home a Duncliffe corner. Three minutes later a one - two between Bettinson and Danny Matson put Bettinson clear to beat Hurst easily from 12 yards. As expected Boston came back strongly. Bircham made an excellent save from a Nuttell header, the next Boston effort was cleared off the line. Boston got a goal back in the 61st minute when Goodhand beat Bircham with a ferocious drive. Both sides continued to exchange efforts for the next 15 - 20 minutes. Boston excerted extra pressure for the last 10 minutes but stout defending ensured Rangers scored a good victory from a very competitive game. Both sets of spectators enjoyed their night out although the Rangers contingent were the happier.

Deeping Rangers: Bircham, Duncliffe, Woods, Stevenson, Porter, Korkmaz, Cobb, Ellison, Matson, Bettinson, Ellis. Subs not used: D. Ruscillo, Feetham, Liberatore, Baines.

Rangers next game is on Saturday 7th October when they are away to Wroxham from the Jewson Premier League in the FA Vase. A coach has been booked for anyone wishing to travel leaving Outgang Road at 9.45am. If you wish to travel on the coach please contact Robin Crowson on 07977971796 or be at Outgang Road by 9.30am.

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FA Vase 7 October - Wroxham 4 Deeping Rangers 1

A large contingent of travelling Deeping fans made the long journey to Trafford Park to watch this Carlsberg F A Vase 1st Round Proper match between two sides that are unbeaten in their respective leagues. Deeping being 3rd in the UCL Prtemier League and Wroxham sitting 3rd in the Ridgeons Premier League. The first half was evenly matched with both sides playing good football and creating chances. The first chance fell to the visitors with a cross from David Cobb being punched out by The Yachtsmen goalkeeper Rob Woodcock past Danny Matson who would have scored had he been better placed. This was followed quickly by Mark Baines being put in but his shot was wide. Rangers continued to pressure the Yachtsmen in the early encounters, and on 22 minutes Danny Matson saw his shot go straight at the keeper. Wroxham fought back in to the game and on the half hour Danny Bircham had to dive full length to turn the ball round the post for a corner. Shortly after Wroxham won a freekick just outside the visitors penalty box, but the shot deflected off Scott Woods' legs. With 5 minutes remaining till the break Gary Gilmore gave the hosts the lead, but Rangers were on the counterattack immediately and Danny Matson was put through one on one with the keeper. The Wroxham keeper dived for the ball at Matson's feet when he tried to round the custodian and the ball went off for a corner. The half ended with Wroxham leading 1 - 0 and the Deeping fans ruing missed chances.

Within 2 minutes of the second half The Yachtsmen had doubled their lead with a headed goal. Rangers hit back immediately and soon had the ball in the net only for it to be ruled off side. A minute later Wroxham were 3 - 0 in front. The Deeping management team then made a double substitution as they tried to get back in to the game. Scott Woods and Mark Baines were taken off to be replaced by Andy Ellis and Matt Porter. Almost immediately Deeping had a chance to reduce the deficit but Matson shot was just over, and then Andy Ellis shot wide. With 12 minutes remaining an argument ensued in the Wroxham penalty box and as a result Deeping were reduced to 10 men when David Cobb was shown a red card. The original penalty was saved by Bircham but the referee was not happy and had the spot kick retaken. This time the ball went in to give the Yachtsmen a 4 - 0 lead. With 5 minutes remaining Lee Ellison was taken off and Tuncay Korkmaz came on as the visitors tried to take something from the game. Just before the end Deeping got a late consolation with a goal from Danny Matson. Rangers can now concentrate on the League when their next game is at home to leaders Wellingborough Town.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Scott Woods (Matt Porter 56 mins), J P Duncliffe, Lee Ellison ( Tuncay Korkmaz 85 mins), David Cobb, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines (Andy Ellis 56 mins). Subs not used: Dan Jarman.

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14 October - Deeping Rangers 1 Wellingborough Town 1

This was a keenly anticipated contest between the last unbeaten side in the league and the league leaders. With Deeping looking to bounce back from their FA Vase defeat by Wroxham. Rangers started brightly with David Cobb hitting the Doughboys post in the early minutes. Deeping continued to dominate and on 9 minutes Michael Stevenson got behind the Wellingborough defence but shot wide and a minute later Sam Bettinson hit the bar with the rebound falling to Andy Ellis who shot over. On the half hour the Doughboys won a freekick on the corner of the Rangers penalty box but shot straight at the defensive wall and the ball rebounded off JP Duncliffe. Action then returned to the other end where Sam Bettinson tried to lob John Hughes in the Wellingborough goal but the ball was just over the bar. Action was end to end at this point and Wellingborough again won a freekick 20 yards out but the ball crashed against the bar. A minute later they should have scored but Danny Bircham was at his best as he dived at the attackers feet and the ball went off for a goal kick. With 5 minutes remaining to the break the Doughboys were awarded another freekick and the ball was delivered to the far post where it was headed in by John Mitchell to give the visitors the lead. Deeping were straight on the attack from the restart and Bettinson blasted over at the other end and in the dying seconds of the half Cobb weaved through the Wellingborough defence but put his shot just outside the post.

In the first minute of the second half Deeping thought they should have had a penalty when Stevenson was tripped in the box but the referee thought otherwise. Andy Ellis then got round the visitors defence but Rangers could not force the ball into the net. On 50 minutes Wellingborough were reduced to 10 men when Luke Pritchard received his second yellow. Deeping continued to apply pressure and Stevenson again shot just wide. On 68 minutes Rangers made a substitution when Mark Baines was introduced to the game for Scott Woods, to make a more attack minded formation. Wellingborough responded by also making a substitution taking off Daren Collins and replacing him with Matt Curtis. With 10 minutes remaining Deeping finally found the net with a goal from sub Mark Baines, and the home fans scensed that their team could still win. On 90 minutes Lee Ellison dribbled into the Wellingborough box but was dispossessed by the keeper diving at his feet. Then at the other end the visitors nearly snatched a late winner but were denied by a reflex save by Bircham clearing the ball off his line. With the game ending 1 - 1 Wellingborough were happier with the result, but although they lost their 100% home record Deeping Rangers still remain the only unbeaten team in their league.

Vine Man of the Match was Sam Bettinson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods (Mark Baines 68), Michael Goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison, Danny Matson, JP Duncliffe, David Cobb, Sam Bettinson, Michael Stevenson, Andy Ellis. Subs unused: Matt Porter, Mark Lovelace, Tuncay Korkmaz.

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17 October - S&L Corby 1 Deeping 5

Tuncay Korkmaz picked an attacking team for this Eagle Bitter United Counties Premier Division game at Occupation Road, with striker Andy Ellis playing at full back and and also including Reserves keeper Jamie Lowndes standing in for Danny Bircham who was absent due to work commitments. Rangers elected to play down the slope from the start, and they were so dominant in the first half that it was fully 17 minutes before custodian Lowndes touched the ball. By that time they were 1 - 0 up. A shot from Mark Baines rebounding off S & L keeper Richard Lavin, and the ball was pounced on by Sam Bettinson who smashed it into the net. Throughout the first half the S & L defence had to repel wave after wave of claret and blue as the Deeping players poured forwards creating scoring chances. On 22 minutes JP Duncliffe delivered a corner for captain Lee Ellison to double the lead, and seven minutes later a looping header from the edge of the 18 yard box for Bettinson made it 0 - 3. Michael Stevenson then hit a thunderbolt from 30 yards that tested Richard Lavin to the full as he dived full length to parry the ball. With 3 minutes remaining to half time Mark Baines fed the ball to Danny Matson for the striker to score his second of the night and give the visitors a 0 - 4 cushion at half time.

S & L were a better side in the second half as they played down the slope, but it was Rangers who extended their lead within 2 minutes of the restart when a shot from Bettinson rebounded for Matson to claim his second. Deeping made various substitutions throughout the half as they changed to a more defensive format. New signing from Deeping Sports Matt Farrington replaced Sam Bettinson, and was immediatley a problem for the home side with his pace and intelligent running. Regular fullback Scott Woods was brought on for Andy Ellis, and Manger Tuncay Korkmaz also took the field as replacement for Michael Stevenson. Shortly after Matson had a header cleared off the line. With 7 minutes remaining S & L won a freekick just outside the Rangers 18 yard box but the shot was no problem for custodian Lowndes. In the final minutes of injury time S & L scored a consolation goal as the ball was headed in.

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21 October Northampton On Chenecks 1 Deeping Rangers 4

On Chenecks from Division 1 entertained Deeping Rangers from the Premier Division in this First Round League Cup clash. In the 8th minute Sam Bettinson played the ball in to Mark Baines who laid on JP Duncliffe to put Rangers in front. On Chenecks then had a chance at the other end but good tackling from Matt Porter stopped the opponent from unleashing his shot. Deeping gradually tightened their grip on the game and Dave Cornell had a stinging shot stopped by the Chenecks keeper. Shortly after confusion in the hosts penalty area resulted in a free ball which Michael Stevenson just hit outside the post. Just before half time Cornell doubled the Deeping lead when his shot was adjudged to have crossed the line by the assistant referee, even though the On Chenecks players thought it had been scrambled off the line.

Three minutes into the second half Mark Baines was brought down in the Chenecks penalty area which presented a chance for captain Lee Ellison to extend the Rangers lead. However the keeper dived smartly to his left to keep the penalty kick out. The ball went out for a corner which Duncliffe delivered and Baines made no mistake with his header to give Rangers a 3 goal advantage. On 53 minutes Andy Ellis was brought on for Danny Matson. Two minutes later Baines delivered the ball into the box for Stevenson, but he mistimed his diving header. On 60 minutes Rangers won a corner and Duncliffe was again inch perfect with his delivery for Ellison to make amends for his penalty kick and head the ball in the net. Michael Stevenson was then substituted for Manager Tuncay Korkmaz, and soon after David Cobb was taken off and replaced by Scott Woods. On 70 minutes On Chenecks were awarded a penalty and Scott Barczewski made no mistake with the spot kick to give the hosts a consolation goal. Five minutes later Deeping had a chance to extend their lead when the ball fell to Baines who put in Duncliffe, but he pulled his shot wide. The game finished with Rangers winning 4 - 1, and they can now look forward to a local derby against Bourne Town in the next round.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, David Cobb (Scott Woods), Matt Porter, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Michael Stevenson (Tuncay Korkmaz), Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson (Andy Ellis), Mark Baines,

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28 October - Deeping Rangers 2 Wootton Blue Cross 0

Deeping Rangers entertained Wootton Blue Cross at Outgang Road with the visitors fourth in the table and boasting a league record of having not dropped a point away from home this season.

Match sponsor was The Taj Mahal Tandoori Restaurant from Market Deeping.

Wootton were a very good side and as early as the 12th minute they got round the Deeping defence and passed the ball across goal, but nobody connected with the net at their mercy. Having survived that scare Rangers then won a free kick at the other end but Andy Ellis shot over the bar. On 20 minutes Blue Cross had another good chance when a free kick was delivered into the Deeping penalty area, a Wootton player rushed into the box but pulled his shot over the bar. Seven minutes later Rangers took the lead with a header from Dave Cornell. The visitors were not going to roll over and a minute later they unleashed a shot at the other end which thankfully flew over the bar. With 5 minutes remaining to half time Danny Bircham had to leap to tip a chip over the bar with his finger tips to maintain Deeping's lead. During first half stoppage time Sam Bettinson doubled the Rangers lead with another headed goal after the ball was originally parried by the Blue Cross keeper.

The second half found Deeping playing against the breeze, and the visitors immediately put them under pressure. Rangers defended resolutely throughout the second half but were under the cosh for long periods of time On 70 minutes the Rangers bench made a change as they altered the formation to a more defensive line up when Scott Woods came on for Andy Ellis. The home side still managed to create chances in the second half and from a free kick Mark Baines saw his looping header fly over the bar. With 10 minutes remaining Blue Cross made a change as they chased the game to keep their unbeaten away run going, and introduced Darrell Elliott for Paul Reynolds. Deeping continued to defend well against the best team seen visiting Outgang Road this season, and held on to take all three points and close the gap on the league leaders

Vine Man of the Match was No4 Michael Stevenson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Matt Porter, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines, Danny Matson, Sam Bettinson, Andy Ellis (Scott Woods 70mins), Subs not used: Ben Harris, Dan Ruscillo, Dan Jarman

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11 November St Neots 1 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping Rangers extended their unbeaten run to 14 games with this fixture at Rowley Park, but missed the chance to go top with leaders Wellingborough losing. In the first half St neots were the better team and they went ahead after 12 minutes with a headed goal following a free kick. A minute later they should have doubled the lead but the shot flew over the bar. It was not until 20 minutes that Deeping created their first chance. John-Paul Duncliffe delivered a free kick on to the head of Dan Ruscillo, but he headed the ball straight at the keeper. On the half hour St Neots built up an attack from deep in their own half which finished with the ball flashing past a Rangers upright. Deeping broke out from the goal kick and won 2 corners in succession at the other end. From the second corner they scored the equaliser curtosy of Dave Cobb. Just before half time an Andy Ellis throw in delivered the ball into the St Neots penaly box, but a Duncliffe bicycle kick was just outside the post.

In the second half Deeping were the better team, and they exerted pressure from the restart.On 62 minutes John Stead came on for JP Duncliffe as Deeping went looking for a winner. Two minutes later Rangers survived a scare when Ruscillo only cleared the ball as far as the St Neots no 6 Ben Singleton. Ben crossed the ball into the the Deeping goal area and a shot crashed against the goal post and was eventually cleared for a corner. On 70 minutes Andy Ellis was taken off and replace by Scott Woods. With 5 minutes remaining Deeping won a free kick and the ball was delivered into the St Neots penalty area where Mark Baines stretched for the ball but could not make contact with the goal at his mercy. In the closing minutes Dave Cobb had a goalbound shot cleared off the line and from the resulting corner another shot was also cleared off the line. Rangers could not break through the St Neots defence and the draw leaves them 2 points behind league leaders Wellingborough Town with 3 games in hand.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, John Paul Duncliffe ( John Stead 62 mins), Andy Ellis (Scott Woods 70 mins), Michael Stevenson, Dan Ruscillo, Michael Goode, Matt Porter, Lee Ellison, David Cobb, Mark Baines. Suibs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz.

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14 November Deeping Rangers 2 Bourne Town 1

Rangers entertained near neighbours Bourne Town for the 3rd time this season in this second round clash in the Eagle Bitter United Counties League Cup, and the game had all the qualities of a local derby. As early as the second minute Deeping hit the Wakes bar, but then action went up the other end with Johnny Currall shooting just wide. Rangers went ahead after 7 minutes with a looping header from Mark Baines over the stranded Lee Flynn in the Bourne goal. On half hour John Stead saw his shot go just outside the Wakes post from 30 yards. At this point Deeping were sustaining strong pressure deep in the Bourne half. On 39 minutes the pressure was rewarded again when Michael Stevenson drove the ball passed the Bourne keeper who was rooted to the spot. Rangers dominated the first half and deserved to go in at half time 2 - 0 up.

In the second half Bourne were a much better team and took the game to the hosts. On 55 minutes Rangers won a freekick, and Flynn had to dive well to his left to keep out the following header. Bourne then made a change when ex-Ranger Matt Holland came on to play against his former club replacing Rob Pearce. On the hour mark a Bourne header went straight at the feet of Rangers custodian Danny Bircham. Two minutes later Deeping made a change when Andy Ellis came on for David Cobb, and then two minutes after that Scott Woods also came on, this time for Sam Bettinson. On 70 minutes the Wakes reduced the arrears with a fluke goal from Ben Stainsby. The ball bouncing over Dan Bircham and almost over the bar. Five minutes later Bourne made their second substitution when Simon Barrick went off to be replaced by Lee Croft. Danny Matson then saw his shot fly just outside the post. On 80 minutes Bourne's scorer was substituted when he was replaced by Dan Grigas. In the closing minutes Rangers were again exerting pressure on the Bourne defence. Andy Ellis played his shot across goal but just wide of the post, and then Scott Woods ran into the Bourne penalty area passed the ball across goal, but nobody could connect with the goal at their mercy. Deep in to stoppage time Deeping made their final substitution when Andy Chapman replaced Mark Baines. There was still time for action at each end, Danny Matson flashed the ball across the Wakes goal and again the Deeping players failed to connect, and then Bourne won a corner at the other end and a lmost scored an equaliser from a header but Bircham was at his best to make a one handed save.

Deeping progressed to the third round of the cup where they take on Desborough who overcame League leaders Wellingborough, but Bourne were a greatly improved side from their previous encounters.

The match was sponsored by the Vine, Market Deeping.

Vine man of the match for Deeping Rangers was Michael Stevenson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, John Stead, David Cobb (Andy Ellis 62 mins), Michael Stevenson, David Cornell, Michael Goode, Dan Ruscillo, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson (Scott Woods 64 mins), Danny Matson, Mark Baines (Andy Chapman 90 mins). Subs not used Ben Harris, Tuncay Korkmaz.

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2nd December 2006 - Wellingborough Town 1 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping Rangers met Wellingborough Town for the third time this season, hoping not to lose pace with the league leaders and also looking to maintain their unbeaten run. The pitch was very boggy and not conducive to playing good passing football as the ball would not travel far. As a consequence it was the league leaders who scored first at the Dog and Duck taking the lead with a goal from Jon Mitchell after the Deeping rearguard failed to close him down. Five minutes later Michael Stevenson nearly equalised when the ball went over the bar following a Rangers corner. On 15 minutes Deeping won a freekick and the ball was delivered to David Cobb in the Doughboys penalty area but his goalbound shot was deflected for a corner. Following the corner the ball was headed onto the post and off for a goal kick. Two minutes later Danny Matson dribbled into the Wellingborough goal area and saw his shot cleared off the line with the keeper beaten. Apart from those few chances Deeping were second best in the first half. The Doughboys were quicker to the ball, and when in possession Deeping gave the ball away to easily at times.

Whatever Tuncay Korkmaz said to his players at half time it seemed to do the trick as Rangers were a lot sharper in the second half. On 60 minutes Tom Ruscillo made his first league appearance for Deeping this season when he came on for J P Duncliffe as Rangers went for a more attacking formation.Three minutes later the Doughboys nearly doubled their lead when a shot flew wide of the upright with Danny Bircham at full stretch. Rangers continued to work hard throughout the second half, and held on to the ball better creating problems for the Wellingborough defence as they went searching for an equaliser. On 70 minutes Scott Woods was taken off and Andy Ellis joined the fray for Deeping and not long after the scores were level. Michael Stevenson putting the ball in the net on 75 minutes. Wellingborough came straight back at the visitors as a corner ball was headed in towards the top corner of the Deeping goal but Danny Bircham saw the danger and deflected the ball for a corner. Both sides had chances in the closing minutes of stoppage time but neither side could make a breakthrough, and Rangers were happy to take a point to stay 6 points behind the league leaders with 5 games in hand.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, John Paul Duncliffe (Tom Ruscillo 60 mins), Scott Woods (Andy Ellis 70 mins), Dave Cornell, Andy Chapman, Michael Goode, Lee Ellison, Michael Stevenson, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Danny Ruscillo, Tom Liberatore, Tuncay Korkmaz

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9 December Holbeach United 0 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping continued their unbeaten run with a hard fought victory over Holbeach United at Carter's Park. Encounters between these two local rivals are always hard fought with plenty of passion and this was no exception. Rangers dominated the first half, which was a scrappy affair, but could not convert this domination into goals. On the half hour Deeping should have took the lead following a freekick delivered into the Holbeach box. Players scrambled for the ball in the Tigers goal mouth, but somehow the ball managed to stay out of the net. A minute later Andy Ellis ran into the Holbeach penalty box but then saw his shot flash across goal. The discipline in the first half slowly deteriorated as the game progressed culminating on 35 minutes with a player from both sides being sent off from the bench.

The second half saw Rangers make changes as they pressed for a winner. On 50 minutes Andy Chapman came off to be replaced by Dan Ruscillo, and nine minutes later Andy Ellis was replaced by Jon Stead. This later substitution changed the game for the visitors. Stead immediately caused problems for the Holbeach defence, and on 66 minutes he ran into the Tigers penalty box beat two players and slotted the ball past the Holbeach custodian Kevin Cross to give Deeping the lead. With 11 minutes remaining Rangers made one more substitution bringing on Mark Baines in place of J P Duncliffe. Holbeach pressed forward looking for an equaliser but Deeping held out for all 3 points to maintain there challenge at the top of the league.>/P>

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Andy Chapman (Dan Ruscillo 50 mins), Michael Goode, David Cornell, Scott Woods, J P Duncliffe (Mark Baines 79 mins), Lee Ellison, Michael Stevenson, Sam Bettinson, Andy Ellis (Jon Stead 59 mins).Subs not used; Tuncay Korkmaz.

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9 December - Deeping Rangers 10 Stotfold 0

Deeping achieved their biggest UCL win in their history, and the biggest UCL win from any team in this season with this game against Stotfold. Deeping dominated this game from beginning to end and as early as the fifth minute had a goal bound header cleared off the line. On 12 minutes the hosts were forced to make a change when Dan Ruscillo was injured and was replaced by J P Duncliffe. A minute later Jon Stead fed the ball to Lee Ellison who hit the Stotfold bar. and the ball bounced back as far as Mark Baines who made no mistake to put the ball past the Stotfold custodian Clive Wetherall. 1 - 0. Ten minutes later good passing play from Rangers tore the Eagles defence apart and Danny Matson claimed his first of the night to give Deeping a 2 - 0 lead. Within a minute Baines had made it 3 - 0. Matson was in superb form and just before the half hour he scored a brilliant solo effort to make it 4 - 0. Then came the turn of Michael Stevenson but his long range shot was just over the bar. On 35 minutes Matson claimed his hat trick and no 5 for Deeping, and a minute later it was 6 - 0 with a goal from Jon Stead. Matson was still not finished and after the Stotfold keeper failed to hold a Rangers free kick he pounced on the loose ball for his fourth of the night and to give Deeping a 7 - 0 lead at half time

Rangers made another substitution at half time taking off Mark Baines and introducing Andy Ellis to the fray. Straight from the restart Deeping were on the attack, but Clive Wetherall mounted a spirited fight back in the Stotfold goal as he tried to stem the claret and blue tide, first stopping Danny Matson and then Sam Bettinson. However this was only a temporary lull in the onslaught, and on 57 minutes substitute Ellis scored the goal of the game when he picked the ball up in his own half and ran into the Stotfold penalty area before unleashing his shot with only the keeper to beat. 8 - 0. On the hour Rangers keeper Danny Bircham was called upon to make his first save of the game diving full length to his right to deny a Stotfold goal. Deeping counter attacked and went straight up the other end where Matson claimed no 5 to make it 9 - 0. Jon Stead was put through on goal but was stopped by Clive Wetherall who continued to try to stem the claret and blue tide. On 64 minutes Matson was taken off and replaced by Tom Liberatore. Jon Stead was determined to get a second and with 5 minutes remaining JP fed him the ball and his goal made it 10 - 0. At the end Bircham had to make another save to ensure a clean sheet. This result ensured Deeping moved into second place to maintain pressure on Wellingborough who have played 5 more games.

Vine man of the match was Danny Matson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, Lee Ellison, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines (Andy Ellis 45 mins), Sam Bettinson, Dan Ruscillo (J P Duncliffe 12 mins), Danny Matson (Tom Liberatore 64 mins), Jon Stead. Subs not used: Andy Chapman, Tuncay Korkmaz.

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16 December - Deeping Rangers 2 Raunds 1

Deeping Rangers completed the double over the Shopmates with this hard fought encounter at Outgang Road. The visitors created the first chance when Danny Bircham pulled off a one handed save at full stretch to keep out a header. The first half was fairly even with both sides creating chances.Raunds were a very disciplined side and kept their game very tight preventing Rangers from playing good attacking football, also Raunds were very quick to break away moving up the pitch with quick passes switching play from side to side.

Deeping made changes at the interval with Tuncay Korkmaz and Andy Ellis replacing Scott Woods and Jon Stead. This made a difference to the play from the restart with Deeping looking more dangerous, playing the ball wider down the wing and getting more shots in to the box. It was from such a move that the first goal came on 49 minutes. J P Duncliffe crossed the ball into the visitors goal mouth finding substitute Korkmaz who returned the ball across goal with a bicycle kick straight on to the head of captain Lee Ellison who made no mistake propelling the ball into the back of the net. Ellison nearly claimed his second on 62 minutes when he created space on the edge of the Raunds penalty box and unleashed his shot only to see the ball fly over the bar. The Shopmates equalised on 73 minutes with a header from Carl Hathaway. It did not take Deeping long to reclaim the lead. From the restart they carved through the Raunds defence with good passing football resulting in Mark Baines slotting his shot past the visitors keeper Chris Jones on 75 minutes. On 81 minutes Rangers made another substitution taking off goal scorer Baines and bringing on David Cobb. With 2 minutes to go J P Duncliffe should have extended the Deeping lead when he was one on one with the Raunds keeper, but he was dispossessed and the ball ran free with the keeper out of position. In spite of having bodies around the ball Deeping could not force it across the line. The match ended 2 - 1 and Rangers taking all three points. They have now extended their unbeaten run to 19 games.

The Vine man of the match was Sam Bettinson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods (Tuncay Korkmaz 45 mins), Michael Goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines (David Cobb 81 mins), Sam Bettinson, John Stead (Andy Ellis 45 mins), Danny matson. Subs not used: Tom Liberatore.

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23 December - Deeping Rangers 2 Long Buckby 0

Deeping extended their unbeaten run to 20 games as they reached the half way stage in the league campaign. The start of the match was delayed by 15 minutes as some of the visiting players had to make a detour on route. As early as the second minute Rangers showed their intent when Danny Matson chipped the Bucks keeper and the bar. Long Buckby were a hard side to break down, and played good passing football. On 12 minutes J P Duncliffe shot wide following a goal mouth melee in the Long Buckby end. The action then went up the other end and Danny Bircham again had to be at his best to push the ball round the post for a corner. The corner was taken and Bircham again punched the ball out, this time as far as a Long Buckby player who saw his shot headed off the Deeping line. On the quarter hour Rangers were forced to make a change when the injured Andy Chapman, who was returning from injury, was replaced by player manager Tuncay Korkmaz. Shortly after Danny Matson went on a scything run into the Long Buckby half only to see his shot fly over the bar. On 25 minutes Matson fed the ball to Baines but he pulled his shot wide from close range. Ten minutes later Deeping made the break through following a corner when Danny Matson put the ball in the net.

On 52 minutes Lee Ellison hit a thunderbolt which the Buckby keeper managed to tip over the bar with both hands. Rangers made their second substitution after 64 minutes when Michael Stevenson made way for Jon Stead. In the closing seconds of the game Matson was brought down in the Long Buckby penalty area and Lee Ellison made no mistake with the spot kick just before the final whistle.

The Vine man of the match was Michael Goode.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Andy Ellis, Michael goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson (Jon Stead 64 mins), Mark Baines, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Andy Chapman (Tuncay Korkmaz 15 mins). Subs mot used: Scott Woods, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Liberatore.

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26 December - Blackstones 1 Deeping Rangers 2

This was a typical local derby with both teams fighting to the final whistle for the points. Deeping were the better team in the first half creating enough chances to win the game, but they were unable to put them away. The visitors opened the scoring after 10 minutes when a Michael Stevenson freekick went through the defensive wall, giving Ian Flavell no chance to see the ball until it was in the back of the Blackstones net. Three minutes later there was a controversial moment when the referee blew for a penalty to Blackstones when one of their players was upended, but the Deeping players argued that it was outside the box. The referee consulted his assistant and a freekick was eventually correctly awarded outside the penalty area. On 28 minutes Danny Matson carved open a chance to extend the lead when he raced down the right side of the pitch with the ball, passing across the goal to the far corner, but Scott Woods missed timed his slide in to the ball and it went off for a goal kick. Two minutes later Deeping again missed the chance to double their lead when Mark Baines shot wide with the goal at his mercy and only the keeper to beat.

The second half started with Blackstones on the offensive. They had Rangers pinned back in their own half but could not make a break through. Deeping slowly got back in to the game and on 72 minutes Mark Baines again created a scoring chance when he made a long run from inside his own half, beat 2 Blackstones defenders but was dispossessed by Ian Flavell diving at his feet. Rangers made their first substitution after 75 minutes when Andy Ellis was taken off to be replaced by David Cobb. Seven minutes later Mark Baines was also taken off to be replaced by Jon Stead. With 6 minutes remaining of normal time Deeping failed to clear a Stones corner with the ball going off for a Blackstones throw in. This was followed by a goal mouth scramble when the ball bounced of a Rangers goal post straight to a Blackstones player who made no mistake with putting the ball past Steve Corry. With the scores level it looked like the game was heading for a draw but neither side was prepared to give up. Five minutes into stoppage time Lee Ellison received the ball in the Blackstones penalty area and turned to pick his spot and slot the ball into the net for the winner. The three points earned ensured Deeping maintained their position at the top of the league.

Deeping Rangers: Steve Corry, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, David Cornell, Michael Goode, Mark Baines (Jon Stead 82 mins), Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Andy Ellis (David Cobb 75 mins). Subs not used: Tom Liberatore, Matt Porter, Tuncay Korkmaz.

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Deeping Rangers 5 Newport Pagnell Town 1

With Wellingborough, Boston and Northampton Spencer not playing Deeping Rangers took advantage of the chance to extend their lead at the top of th league. Both of these sides are high scoring teams and the spectators were expecting to see a few goals in the game. The visitors kicked off the game with Rangers playing with the stiff breeze behind them and the advantage of the setting sun at their backs. As early as 11 minutes Andy Ellis blasted his shot over the Pagnell bar. Five minutes later Rangers were in front when Mark Baines scrambled the ball over the line and into the net. Deeping were in total control, and although Pagnell were playing good passing football in the centre of the park they were lacking in the final third. On 25 minutes Jon Stead lost his marker and fired his shot towards the top right corner of the goal. Somehow the Pagnell keeper managed to leap and get his hands to the ball.

The second half started with Deeping straight on the attack, when the Pagnell keeper caught an Andy Ellis header. Rangers turned up the pace, and doubled their lead within 2 minutes of the restart when Sam Bettinson scored with a header following a Duncliffe corner. On 56 minutes Deeping made their first substitution when Danny Matson replaced Jon Stead. Matson was soon into the thick of the action, and it was his pass from the corner flag that enabled Michael Stevenson to make it 3 - 0 with a volley into the Pagnell net from 20 yards. On 68 minutes Rangers made their second substitution when David Cobb came on for Andy Ellis. Shortly afterwards Deeping were awarded a penalty for hand ball and Lee Ellison made no mistake with the spot kick, sending the keeper the wrong way. On 80 minutes Deeping made their final substitution with Tom Liberatore joining the fray as replacement for Sam Bettinson. Pagnell were then awarded a penalty for holding and although Danny Bircham dived the right way he could not stop Danny Nicholls from scoring. The action was still not over and with 3 minutes to go substitute David Cobb made it 5 - 1 to Rangers in a game they dominated throughout.

The Vine man of the match was Michael Stevenson who was presented with a bottle by World Darts Champion Martin Adams.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Andy Ellis (David Cobb 68 mins), Scott Woods, Michael Goode, Matt Porter, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines, Sam Bettinson (Tom Liberatore 80 mins), Jon Stead (Danny Matson 56 mins), Subs not used: Tuncay Korkmaz, Tom Ruscillo.

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27 January 2007 - Deeping Rangers 1 Northampton Spencer 0

Deeping came out on top of this eagerly awaited tussle between two title contenders with the meanest defences in the league. This was never going to be a high scoring game, but three points were crucial to both sides. Rangers started with an unbeaten record, and Spencer were unbeaten away from home in the league. Something had to give. The home side kicked off the match, but Spencer were first on the attack winning a corner within the first minute. The visitors won most of the early exchanges but Deeping slowly clawed their way back in to the game, and took the lead on 26 minutes. Rangers won their first corner of the game, and the ball was delivered in to the box as usual by J P Duncliffe. As the ball came down Sam Bettinson rushed into the Spencer goal area unmarked and placed his header in the back of the net. Just before half time Deeping should have doubled the lead when the Spencer players hesitated thinking Mark Baines was off side. No flag came, and he raced towards the visitors goal unchallenged only to see Oliver Urquart in the Spencer goal turn his shot round the post.

The second half was end to end football with neither side carving out any real chances. On 71 minutes Rangers thought they had scored but a well aimed header was cleared off the line. On 80 minutes an Andy Ellis shot was tipped over the bar by Oliver Urquart. With 5 minutes remaining Deeping made their first substitution when Mark Baines was taken off and replaced by Jon Stead, and 3 minutes later they made their second substitution taking off Andy Ellis and bringing on Matt Porter.

Vine Man of the Match was Sam Bettinson.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Andy Ellis (Matt Porter 88 mins), Scott Woods, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines (Jon Stead 85 mins), Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson. Subs not used: Tom Ruscillo, Tom Liberatore.

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6 February - Deeping Rangers 1 Desborough Town 2

Deeping Rangers crashed out of the League Cup at the Quarter Final stage with this lacklustre performance in cold frosty conditions. Desborough started the brightest and Jamie O'Neill put them in front in the first minute. Throughout the first half the visitors controlled the midfield, and Deeping found it difficult to string together passes on an increasingly slippery surface. On 23 minutes Desborough should have doubled their lead when Deeping custodian Danny Bircham was caught outside the Rangers penalty area. The ball went just outside the post to the relief of the home fans. There was talk at half time of whether the game would finish as the pitch was quickly freezing over, but the Referee deemed conditions fit and play resumed. Deeping improved in the second half, but Desborough continued to control the midfield. Rangers made their first substitution on the hour mark when Duncliffe was taken off and replaced by Sam Bettinson. This seemed to lift Deeping and they quickly won a corner, but Lee Ellison headed over the bar. On 70 minutes Deeping made their second substitution when Andy Ellis was sent on for Scott Woods. A minute later Michael Sneddon put Desborough two goals in front. With 5 minutes remaining Rangers had a header cleared of the line. Five minutes later Lee Ellison scored a consolation goal for Deeping. The home side pressed forwards in stoppage time, and almost snatched an equaliser with the last kick of the game.

The Vine Man of the Match was Michael Goode.

Desborough will now meet Boston Town in the semi-final

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods (Andy Ellis 70 mins), Michael Goode, David Cornell, Matt Porter, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe (Sam Bettinson 60 mins), Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines, Danny Matson, David Cobb. Subs not used: Tom Ruscillo, Andy Chapman, Jody Vincent.

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14 February Bourne Town 0 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping extended their lead at the top of the Eagle Bitter United Counties League to 9 points and 26 games unbeaten with this win over local rivals Bourne Town at the Abbey Lawns. During the first half Rangers created a lot of pressure but could not convert this domination into goals. On 10 minutes Bourne custodian Ben Derbyshire made a fine one handed save from a Deeping header, with the ball dipping under the bar. On 35 minutes Sam Bettinson was put through but he pulled his shot wide.

The second half was only two minutes old when the deadlock was broken. Danny Matson had a shot cleared off the Bourne goal line, and a minute later Scott Woods delivered the ball into the Wakes goal mouth for former Wake Sam Bettinson to head home. On 66 minutes Matson shot wide following good build up play and 4 minutes later J P Duncliffe hit the Wakes bar. On 75 minutes Rangers made their only substitution of the game when Danny Matson was taken off and Tom Ruscillo came on. Five minutes later Jason Gough brought down Andy Ellis in the Bourne penalty area and the Referee pointed to the spot. The normally reliable Lee Ellison stepped up for the kick but his shot went well wide. This miss seemed to spur the Wakes on and they upped the tempo as they went in search of the equaliser. Two minutes later Deeping were again pouring forward, and goal scorer Sam Bettinson was dispossessed in the Bourne penalty area for a corner. Deeping hung on to their slender lead and took all 3 points.

Deeping Rangers: Dan Bircham, Scott Woods, Lee Ellison, Michael Stevenson, John-Paul Duncliffe, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson (Tom Ruscillo 75 mins), Mark Baines, Matt Porter, David Cornell, Andy Ellis. Subs not used: Andy Chapman, Tuncay Korkmaz, Tom Liberatore.

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17 February St Ives Town 0 Deeping Rangers 2

Deeping Rangers extended their unbeaten run to 27 games with this win at Westwood Road. Rangers should have gone ahead in the first 5 minutes when a high ball was played into the Saints box by Andy Ellis, but when it came down the ball was missed by Mark Baines with the goal beckoning.5 minutes later Danny Matson was provider for Baines but this time the keeper saved. Deeping were in command of the game at this point, and they continued to pile forward looking for a goal. On 17 minutes Baines turned provider as he fed the ball to Andy Ellis lurking on the edge of the St Ives penalty box, but he blasted his shot over. On 25 minutes Baines was at it again when he crossed the ball in front of the St Ives goal, but there was nobody there to poke it in the net. Three minutes later the deadlock was broken with Danny Matson firing the ball into the top of the net. with only the keeper to beat. St Ives went straight on to the attack from the restart and won a corner, but the danger was cleared. With 5 minutes of the half remaining Rangers had a scare when a St Ives player rounded Scott Woods, but Deeping custodian Danny Bircham produced a good block to deflect the ball for a corner. From the corner kick a Saints player rose higher than the opposition and powered a header towards the top of the Rangers net. Bircham was again at his athletic best and leapt up to produce a brilliant one handed save. There was still time for another chance for Deeping before half time when Baines again delivered the ball in to the St Ives box for Andy Ellis, but he shot over.

Rangers made a changes at half time, when Andy Ellis was taken off and replaced by David Cobb. Eight minutes into the second half Matson was brought down in the St Ives penalty area, and the referee didn't hesitate pointing to the spot. With Lee Ellison having missed a spot kick the previous Tuesday against Bourne, several of the travelling Rangers fans were apprehensive when he stepped up to take the spot kick. They had nothing to fear as the Rangers skipper crashed the ball in to the back of the net. It was 70 minutes when Matson made a solo run into the Saints goal area, but he was tackled at the last minute with only the keeper to beat and the ball went off for a corner. Five minutes later Matson had another chance when he chipped the advancing Saints custodian Rob Mackney, but the ball bounced to high in front of the goal and flew over the bar. With 7 minutes remaining Deeping made another change with Tom Ruscillo replacing Mark Baines. Three minutes later Sam Bettinson passed the ball into space in the St Ives box and David Cobb rushed in with the net gaping, but he could not control the ball and it flew over the bar. Just before full time Rangers made their final substitution bringing on Tom Liberatore and taking off Michael Stevenson. Rangers hung on to keep a clean sheet and record their 22nd League victory of the season.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods, Lee Ellison, Michael Stevenson (Tom Liberatore 89 mins), J-P Duncliffe, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Mark Baines (Tom Ruscillo 83 mins), David Cornell, Andy Ellis (David Cobb 45 mins), Andy Chapman. Sub not used Tuncay Korkmaz

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20 February - Deeping Rangers 4 Boston Town 1

The largest crowd of the season were entertained by the best game of football seen at Outgang Road in a long time, as Deeping Rangers extended their lead at the top of the League to 12 points by beating their nearest rivals Boston Town. The Pilgrims started the strongest, but Deeping slowly played their way back into the game. The first chance for the hosts came after 20 minutes when the Boston keeper did well to get a hand to a Sam Bettinson header. In fact it was the two goalkeepers that played the most crucial part in the first half as they both made acrobatic saves to keep their side in the game. Just as it looked like they would reach the break with no score Boston won a penalty deep in stoppage time. Top scorer Gary Bull took the spot kick, and even though Danny Bircham dived the right way he could not keep the ball out and the half ended with the Pilgrims in front.

After the break Rangers set about tearing the Boston team apart, as the visitors struggled to cope with the pace of the Deeping front runners. On 49 minutes Michael Stevenson turned on the edge of the Boston penalty area and fired the ball in to the back of the net to equalise. Twenty minutes later Rangers won a corner and the ball was delivered with the usual efficiency by J-P Duncliffe and David Cornell was on hand to head the ball goalwards. The ball was helped on the way by Mark Baines, and Rangers were in front. The lead was extended further on 74 minutes when Danny Matson was brought down just outside the Boston penalty area. Michael Stevenson stepped up to take the freekick and curled the ball round the wall and into the top corner of the net. Goal no 4 for Rangers came in the closing minutes of the game, when Mark Baines lost his marker and raced goalwards one on one with the Boston keeper. Just when everyone thought he was going to shoot he passed the ball sideways to an unmarked Danny Matson who slotted the ball passed the keeper to score against his former club. Deeping then made a substitution taking off striker David Cobb and bringing on defender Scott Woods.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Lee Ellison, J-P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Mark Baines, Sam Bettinson, Andy Chapman, David Cobb (Scott Woods) Danny Matson. Subs not used: Andy Ellis, Matt Porter, Tom Ruscillo, Tuncay Korkmaz.

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10 March - Deeping Rangers 4 Desborough Town 1

Deeping Rangers were hoping to continue their unbeaten run when they entertained Desborough Town at Outgang Road. As in their previous encounter Desborough took an early lead with a goal after 38 seconds from Jamie O'Neil. Deeping were quick to reply and Danny Matson equalised after 7 minutes. Two minutes later Rangers won a corner and Captain Lee Ellison headed wide. Desborough then had a corner at the other end but they also headed over. On 18 minutes David Cobb was brought down in the Desborough penalty box and the referee immediately pointed to the spot. Lee Ellison converted the spot kick to put Rangers in front. On the half hour Deeping should have extended their lead when Lee Ellison had a header cleared off the line following a J P Duncliffe corner.

At half time the hosts made their first change when Matt Porter replaced Michael Stevenson who had received a knock in the first half. Their second change came after 75 minutes when JP Duncliffe was taken off and Andy Ellis came on to create a more attacking line up. The last 15 minutes of the game Desborough surged forward time and again as they went in search of an equaliser, and had Rangers under pressure. This left gaps at the back and Danny Matson exploited these gaps twice as he went for his hat trick. Matson's second goal was a brilliant solo effort early in stoppage time. His third goal came on 94 minutes. David Cobb rounded Desborough custodian Shaun Allen but crashed the ball against the post. Matson was first to the rebound to crash the ball in the back of the net.

The Vine Man of the Match was Michael goode.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Scott Woods, Michael Goode, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe (Andy Ellis 75 mins), Michael Stevenson (Matt Porter 45 mins), Mark Baines (Tuncay Korkmaz 90 mins), Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Andy Chapman, David Cobb. Sub not used: Tony Benjamin.

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17 March - Wootton Blue Cross 0 Deeping Rangers 2

Deeping Rangers showed their Championship credentials by bouncing back from their recent defeat by Yaxley to record a double over 4th placed Wootton Blue Cross. Rangers started the game at Weston Park playing against a strong wind and should have taken the lead after 6 minutes when Andy Ellis opened up the Blue Cross defence with a pass across the Wootton goal. The follow up shot was blasted over the bar. Wootton had their first real chance on 22 minutes at the other end but they headed over the Deeping bar.

The first half ended with no score, and in the second period Rangers had the benefit of the following wind. This was used to deadly effect by Deeping custodian Danny Bircham as he was able to launch the ball deep into the Wootton half. On 56 minutes Rangers came close to a goal when Danny Matson saw his shot headed off the line. A minute later they were in front. Deeping won a corner which was taken by Andy Ellis. Blue Cross keeper Matt Jones tried to catch the ball in the air but only succeeded in turning it into his own net. On 78 minutes Tuncay Korkmaz made his first change of the game, going for a more defensive line up, when striker Danny Matson was taken off to be replaced by defender Matt Porter. With 3 minutes remaining J P Duncliffe completed the scoring when he turned in the Wootton penalty box, held off two defenders, and placed his shot in the back of the net.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Michael Goode, David Cornell, Scott Woods, J P Duncliffe, Andy Ellis, Lee Ellison, Michael Stevenson, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson (Matt Porter 78 mins), Mark Baines. Subs not used: Andy Chapman, Tuncay Korkmaz.

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20 March - 2007 - Hinchingbrooke Cup - Deeping Rangers 3 Yaxley 2

Both teams had a point to prove when they met at Outgang Road for this Hinchingbrooke Cup Quarter Final Clash. On the three previous occasions these two teams had met this season they had won one each with the other drawn. Rangers were on the attack from the start. Andy Ellis had a shot tipped over by the Yaxley keeper, and a minute later Mark Baines shot wide and then Michael Stevenson shot wide. Yaxley soon recovered from the early onslaught and Mark Paul put them ahead after 7 minutes. Deeping were quick to reply and a minute later the scores were level courtesy of a Danny Matson goal. Rangers continued to dominate the first half playing good attacking football and creating numerous chances. On 25 minutes Deeping won a freekick 20 yards out from the Yaxley goal. J P Duncliffe despatched the ball and the Yaxley custodian did well to make a fingertip save, the rebound was hit back in towards goal and the keeper again made a reflex save. Yaxley then worked their way back into the game and forced Deeping onto the back foot. On 35 minutes Mark Baines had a chance to put Rangers in front but chose to pass with only the keeper to beat, and the ball went off for a corner. In the last 5 minutes of the half Andy Ellis shot wide for Rangers and team mate Sam Bettinson saw his shot blocked by the keeper.

The second half continued in the same vain with both teams playing end to end football. On 55 minutes Deeping had a throw in near the Cuckoos penalty area. Bettinson used his hight advantage to power a header in towards goal which the keeper failed to hold, but Rangers could not get the ball in the net. A minute later Ian Edge passed three Deeping defenders to pu Yaxley back in front. Danny Matson scored his second to restore parity on the hour. On 69 minutes Deeping won a corner. The ball was delivered with the usual accuracy by J P Duncliffe, and flicked on by Andy Ellis for Mark Baines to power the ball into the net and give Rangers the lead. On 80 minutes Duncliffe was provider again when he put Baines through but the Cuckoos custodian dived full length to turn the ball round the post. The game finished 3 - 2 with Rangers gaining revenge for the recent league defeat by Yaxley.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, J P Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Michael Stevenson, Matt Porter, Michael Goode, Mark Baines, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, Andy Ellis. Subs not used: Tom Liberatore, Wayne Oldaker, Tuncay Korkmaz

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Monday 9 April - Deeping Rangers 1 Blackstones 0

This was a good Easter Monday local derby which both teams wanted to win. Blackstones had the first attempt after 5 minutes when their player hit the ball skywards with the goal beckoning. Two minutes later Blackstones had the ball in the net but the goal was denied by the offside flag. On 20 minutes Rangers were forced to make a substitution when Andy Ellis went off injured and was replaced by Matt Porter. Five minutes later Danny Matson turned on the edge of the Blackstones penalty area and powered the ball into the top corner of the goal. Stones custodian Ian Flavell did well to leap up and tip the ball over for a corner. On 40 minutes Deeping were awarded a freekick about 25 yards out. Lee Ellison rose above everybody else to turn the ball into the Stones net to the delight of the home fans.

In the second half Blackstones had most of the possession but could not turn this into scoring opportunities. Blackstones had to play the last 5 minutes with only 10 men when a player was dismissed following a foul on Danny Matson. The game ended 1 - 0 to Rangers leaving them just 2 wins off the title.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Andy Ellis (Matt Porter 20 mins), Scott Woods, Michael Goode, Lee Ellison, J P Duncliffe, Michael Stevenson, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, David Cobb, Andy Chapman. Subs not used: Mark Baines, Wayne Oldaker, Younis Tajer, Tunkay Korkmaz.

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11 April - Potton 1 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping Rangers gained another valuable point at the Hollow as they moved closer in their quest for the UCL Premier League Title. Potton were all over Rangers in the first 20 minutes of the game, but as the game progressed they tired, and Deeping grew stronger as their superior fitness levels showed. On 10 minutes Rangers won a corner and the ball was cleared off the Potton goal line. Ten minutes later Potton were in front with a goal from Brett Donnelly.

In the second half Deeping started out on top and took the game to their hosts. On 52 minutes David Cobb flashed the ball across the mouth of the Potton goal but nobody was able to make contact with it. On the hour mark Cobb saw his shot pushed out by Brad Gilham in the Potton goal. Sam Bettinson was there to bounce on the rebound and crash the ball intothe net.

Deeping Rangers: Danny Bircham, Andy Chapman, Scott Woods, J P Duncliffe, Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Danny Matson, David Cobb, Matt Porter, Luke Kennedy. Subs not used: Dan Ruscillo, Wayne Oldaker, Steve Coilangelo, Tom Liberatore

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25 April - Deeping Rangers 1 Lincoln Moorlands 3

Premier Division champions Deeping missed out on the county trophy as Moorlands avenged an early season FA Cup defeat by Rangers. Michael Stevenson missed an early chance for Rangers, finishing weakly after breaking through the middle, while Sam Bettinson was wide with a header from David Cobb's centre. Deeping took a 26th minute lead through Lee Ellison's spot kick, after Bettinson was brought down by Nick Robinson. Ellison had a header from a John Paul Duncliffe cross saved, but the turning point arrived after 32 minutes. Possession was surrendered cheaply in midfield by Deeping and Ryan Porter set up Scott Coupland whose low shot from 25 yards was perfectly placed in the corner of the net. Cobb and Stevenson went close to restoring Deeping's lead before the break.

Moorlands went in front five minutes after the restart, Nick Mason's cross from the right swept in by Daniel Bent. Danny Bircham in the Rangers goal produced a spectacular save to turn away a goalbound Dean Dye effort, but Moorlands went further ahead after 56 minutes when Robinson caught out Deeping with a quickly taken free kick which was perfectly placed inside the far post. Deeping enjoyed the lion's share of possession thereafter but created few openings against a well drilled Moorlands rearguard. The best chance fell to Stevenson after Cobb's cross was flicked on by Bettinson, but the midfielder could only find the side netting. Moorlands threatened on the counter attack and almost added to their tally in stoppage time, Bircham saving well to keep substitute Joe Butler off the scoresheet.

Deeping: Danny Bircham, Tom Liberatore (Wayne Oldaker), Scott Woods (Steve Colangelo), Michael Stevenson, Dave Cornell, Michael Goode, John Paul Duncliffe (Tuncay Korkmaz), Lee Ellison, Sam Bettinson, Andy Chapman, David Cobb.

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Appearances and Goal Scorers for Deeping Rangers First Team for season 2006/7

Cup appearances and cup goals scored exclude the Lincs Free Press Cup. League Appearances do not include the final match v Newport Pagnell. Cup appearances do not include Hinchingbrooke Cup game v Barton Rovers

Player	Lge Apps	Cup Apps	Total Apps	Lge Sub	Cup Sub	Total Sub	Lge Goals	Cup Goals	Total Goals
Ellison	36	11	47	0	1	1	15	8	23
Duncliffe	35	9	44	1	1	2	4	3	7
Goode	32	12	44	0	0	0	0	0	0
Bircham	32	12	44	0	0	0	0	0	0
Bettinson	31	11	42	1	3	4	11	0	11
Stevenson	31	11	42	1	1	2	8	4	12
Woods	30	11	41	6	2	8	0	0	0
Cornell	27	11	38	0	0	0	3	2	5
Matson	25	9	34	2	2	4	18	6	24
Baines	22	7	29	2	2	4	9	5	14
Ellis	24	4	28	5	7	12	3	1	4
Cobb	16	10	26	5	1	6	4	1	5
Porter	13	6	19	8	2	10	0	0	0
Chapman	10	2	12	0	1	1	1	0	1
Libertore	4	4	8	5	1	6	0	0	0
Mosley (left the club)	4	2	6	1	0	1	1	2	3
Stead	4	1	5	7	0	7	7	0	7
Korkmaz	2	2	4	8	3	11	1	0	1
Dan Ruscillo	2	2	4	3	0	3	0	0	0
King	3	1	4	0	0	0	1	0	1
Feetham (left the club)	2	1	3	0	0	0	0	0	0
Oldaker	0	1	1	1	3	4	0	0	0
Younis Tajer	1	0	1	3	1	4	0	0	0
Roddis (left the club)	1	0	1	3	0	3	0	0	0
Harris	0	1	1	1	0	1	0	0	0
Challinor (left the club)	1	0	1	1	0	1	0	0	0
Corry	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
Kennedy	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
Lowndes	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
Jarman	0	1	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
Tom Ruscillo	0	0	0	4	0	4	0	0	0
Colangelo	0	0	0	1	1	2	0	0	0
Farrington	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	0

 

2005/06 Summary

Eagle Bitter UCL Premier League. Season 2005/6

Opposition	Home date/result (Deeping first)	Away date/result (Deeping first)	aggregate	Points
Blackstones	3-2	0-3	3-5	3
Boston Town	4-3	0-1	4-4	3
Bourne Town	1-4	3-0	4-4	3
Buckingham Town	0-2	0-1	3-3	0
Cogenhoe Utd	2-6	2-3	4-9	0
Desborough Town	4-1	1-2	5-3	3
Ford Sports	3-3	0-1	3-4	1
Harrowby Utd	2-3	4-1	6-4	3
Holbeach Utd	3-1	4-2	7-3	6
Long Buckby	3-0	2-1	5-1	6
Newport Pagnell	1-0	0-1	1-1	3
Northampton Spencer	0-5	0-0	0-5	1
Potton Utd	1-2	1-2	2-4	0
Raunds Town	2-2	0-2	2-4	1
St Ives Town	0-1	1-1	1-2	1
St Neots Town	0-3	1-1	1-4	1
S&L Corby	1-1	1-2	2-3	1
Stotfold	1-1	1-1	2-2	2
Woodford Utd	0-2	0-2	0-4	0
Wootton	3-1	1-2	4-3	3
Yaxley	0-0	0-1	0-1	1

Player	Lge Apps	Cup Apps	Total Apps	Lge Sub	Cup Sub	Total Sub	Lge Goals	Cup Goals	Total Goals
Bircham	35	6	41	0	0	0	0	0	0
Ellison	30	7	37	1	0	1	6	1	7
Korkmaz	26	6	32	0	1	1	2	0	2
Griffiths	24	5	29	5	0	5	4	0	4
Nichols	23	6	29	3	1	4	5	2	7
Ruscillo D	25	3	28	0	0	0	0	0	0
Woods	19	5	24	3	2	5	0	0	0
Lazlo	19	4	23	4	0	4	4	1	5
Smith Jarrod	20	2	22	0	0	0	4	1	5
Porter	16	5	21	3	0	3	0	0	0
Duncliffe	16	5	21	1	0	1	2	0	2
Smith Jamie	18	3	21	0	0	0	2	0	2
Lovelace (left)	15	5	20	3	1	4	9	2	11
Ellis	17	3	20	0	0	0	1	0	1
Last A	18	1	19	13	4	17	3	0	3
Libertore	17	2	19	3	0	3	0	0	0
Oldacre	14	5	19	1	1	2	1	1	2
Patterson	12	6	18	5	0	5	0	0	0
Emmerson	9	1	10	4	1	5	0	0	0
Ruscillo T	7	2	9	3	0	3	0	0	0
Gray (left)	6	3	9	1	1	2	2	0	2
Feetham	4	3	7	0	1	1	0	0	0
Last G (left)	5	2	7	0	0	0	1	0	1
Hepburn (left)	4	2	6	3	0	3	0	0	0
Dancy (left)	4	2	6	3	2	5	0	0	0
Robertson	6	0	6	3	0	0	3	0	3
Lewsam	5	0	5	0	0	0	3	0	3
Philips	3	1	4	1	0	1	0	0	0
Holland	2	1	3	0	1	1	0	0	0
Palmer	2	0	2	6	1	7	1	0	1
Birtles	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
Asher-Powell	0	1	1	1	0	1	0	0	0
Hunter	1	0	1	1	0	1	1	0	1
Ray	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
Burchett	0	0	0	5	1	6	0	0	0
Younis Tajer	0	0	0	2	0	2	0	0	0
Colangelo	0	0	0	2	2	4	0	0	0
Weston	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	0
Graves	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	0
Jarman	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	0

 

2004/05 Summary

Eagle Bitter UCL Premier League. Season 2004/5

Opposition	Home date/result (Deeping first)	Away date/result (Deeping first)	aggregate	Points
Blackstones	2-3	2-1	4-4	3
Boston Town	1-2	1-1	2-3	1
Bourne Town	0-0	2-1	2-1	4
Buckingham Town	0-1	3-2	3-3	3
Cogenhoe Utd	2-5	0-3	2-8	0
Daventry	3-2	2-0	5-2	6
Desborough Town	0-2	4-4	4-6	1
Ford Sports	0-1	2-1	2-2	3
Harrowby Utd	2-5	0-3	2-8	0
Holbeach Utd	1-0	0-3	1-3	3
Long Buckby	2-2	3-0	5-2	4
Newport Pagnell	4-2	2-0	6-2	6
Northampton Spencer	1-1	0-1	1-2	1
Potton Utd	0-4	2-2	2-6	1
Raunds Town	2-0	2-0	4-0	6
St Neots Town	3-1	0-0	3-1	4
S&L Corby	4-2	4-1	8-3	6
Stotfold	2-0	2-3	4-3	3
Woodford Utd	1-1	0-2	1-3	1
Wootton	1-1	1-2	2-3	1
Yaxley	2-3	1-4	3-7	0

Cup Results

First Team Cup Results Season 2004/5

Opposition	Home date/result (Deeping first)	Away date/result (Deeping first)
F A Cup
Glapwell	2-0
Coalville Town	2-2	1-3
F A Vase
Arnold Town		1-2
UCL Cup
Potton U	0-1
Lincs Cup
Winterton R	0-1	-

Match Reports

14 September Deeping Rangers 4 v S&L Corby 2

Deeping Rangers played S & L Corby hoping to contine their good start to the season, and with the visitors hoping to earn their first points of the season.

Ross Nicholls scored for Rangers after 7 minutes, and this started a hectic 8 minute period which brought 4 goals. Straight from the restart S & L pressed forward and Chris Power scored the equaliser. This was followed 2 minutes later by another goal from S & L to take the lead. Next Griffiths was brought down in the Corby penalty box , and Robertson made no mistake with the spot kick. Score 2 - 2 and they had only been playing 15 minutes.

Throughout the rest of the first half Deeping had the better of the chances, and inspite of hitting the cross bar, and a goal post they were unable to score again. The first half ended with Griffiths being rugby tackled to the floor on the edge of the Corby penalty box, but instead of being awarded a freekick he received a yellow card from the referee.

Corby kicked off the second half, and they were a much better team. Both sides matched each other and played some good passing football.

On 70 minutes Deeping were awarded a free kick which was followed by a headed goal by Lee Ellison. Ten minutes later S & L were down to 10 men when their no 11 received his marching orders from the referee. Rangers were saving the best till last and on 90 minutes Chris Garwell scored a screamer from 20 yards

The score remained at 4 -2 and Deeping continued their good start to the season. However on this showing S & L Corby won't stay bottom of the league for long.

Rangers -. Feetham, Bircham, Barkess, Ellison, Holland, Garwell, Griffiths, Nichols, Patterson, Robertson, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Sgroi, Woods.

S & L Corby - Elliot, Wood, Torrance, Montgomery, Morrison, Robb, McIlwain, Power, Johnson, Byrne, O'Neill, Morrow, Noone, McDevitt, Fox.

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25 September Deeping rangers 2 v Long Buckby 2

Long Buckby opened the scoring after 1 min 10 secs. A Buckby player was brought down unnecessarily just outside the Rangers area. The resultant free kick was punched out by Feetham and the loose ball fell to another Buckby player. His shot went into a crowded goal mouth and the ball was deflected in for an own goal

On 16 minutes the Long Buckby custodian Shaun Allen failed to hold a Santoro shot and Lee Ellison equalised from the rebound.

Not many chances were created for the rest of the first half although Allen was the busier keeper, with neither keeper having a difficult save to make. The second half started with Deeping still in the changing rooms, and John Crockett increased the lead for Long Buckby after 46 minutes.

Seven minutes later Buckby were reduced to 10 men when their no 8 received a second yellow card.Rangers then started to press forward, and 7 minutes later Santoro headed wide. On 58 minutes Chris Garwell replaced Carl Griffiths as Deeping pushed for an equaliser. On 65 minutes Rangers had another chance with a shot into the side netting, and two minutes later Santoro had a shot well saved by the Buckby keeper.

Rangers fans did not have to wait much longer for the equaliser which came from Ross Nicholls on 69 minutes. From the restart Long Buckby pressed forward and had a shot rebound down off the Rangers goal bar but it did not cross the line. There was then some frantic defending in the Deeping box and two Buckby corners before the ball was finally cleared.

This was followed by a period of Rangers pressure during which Allen made a brilliant one handed save off the line to deny Deeping. Late in the game Mat Holland replaced Tom Ruscillo as Deeping went looking for a winner, but they failed to breach the Long Buckby defence, and the game ended 2 - 2.

Deeping Rangers missed the suspended Dave Robertson, and Ros Nicholls took over the captaincy in Robbo's absence.

Rangers - Feetham, Bircham, Barkess, Ellison, Holland, Garwell, Griffiths, Nichols, Patterson, Porter, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Sgroi, Weston, Woods.

Long Buckby - Allen, Redmond, Worthington, Thurston, Richard Crockett, Jonathon Crockett, Renshaw, Bradshaw, Wright, McKenzie, Drinkwater, Botterill, Abrahart, Abrahams, Botterill, Tunnard.

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2 October Deeping Rangers 2 v Cogenhoe 5

Rangers today fell to their second 5 - 2 defeat at home this season. This time to a very physical and quick Cogenhoe side.

Fifteen minutes into the game the Cooks keeper spilled a Rangers corner but nobody was quick enough to pick the stray ball up, and the eventual shot went outside the post. Fve minutes later Cogenhoe had a good chance at the other end which was well saved by Feetham. Three minutes later they again had another chance and this time blasted the ball over the Rangers goal.

On 37 minutes Ben Foster put Cogenhoe in front, and five minutes later they should have doubled their lead when they were faced with an open goal. A Rangers defender nipped in to steal the ball and deny a certain goal scoring chance.

At the start of the second half Matt Holland replaced Scott Woods for Deeping. On 52 minutes Rangers had a chance to equalise, but nobody contacted with the cross into the box. However the Deeping supporters did not have to wait long for a goal, and on 54 minutes Griffiths duly obliged.

On 70 minutes Rangers should have had a penalty when their player was brought down in the box sandwiched between two opposing defenders. The referee however waved play on and a minute later Jamie Wright made it 2 -1 to Cogenhoe. On 75 minutes Deeping won a corner, and a good cross into the goal mouth brought some desperate defending from Cogenhoe, but the ball would not go in the net. On 82 minutes Cogenhoe brought on Richard Turner for Louis Pilgrim, and Deeping replaced Carl Griffiths with Scott Quinney. With 10 minutes to go Darren Collins extended the Cooks lead, but Ross Nicholls quickly replied for Rangers to make it 2 - 3.

Cogenhoe suibstituted Rob Goldring for Darren Collins and this was followed by 5 minutes of madness when Deeping conceded 2 goals in as many minutes. Final score 2 - 5.

Rangers - Feetham, Barkess, Ellison, Holland, Garwell, Griffiths, Nichols, Patterson, Porter, Tom Ruscillo, Dan Ruscillo, Sgroi, Weston, Woods.

Cogenhoe - Earl, Wilkinson, McCarthy, Njotsa, Turner, Pilgrim, Collins, Goldring, Foster, Sandy, Reed, Wright, Hancock, Douglas.

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9 October Deeping Rangers 2 v Stotfold 0

Guest of honour at this fixture was Ian Turner, who played in goal for Southampton when they beat Manchester United in the FA Cup Final of 1976, together with his winner's medal.

Vince Adams made changes for this game, playing four at the back, and also the Deeping faithful welcomed back Tuncay Korkmaz, always a popular player, who rejoined the team in midfield after a spell at Yaxley.The changes made Rangers more solid at the back and they looked a far better side than the one that played Cogenhoe last weekend. Also Danny Bircham played in goal for the injured John Feetham.

Stotfold kicked off this league fixture. On the half hour Gianni Santoro was brought down just outside the Stotfold box as he rushed through on goal. The resultant freekick was well saved by the goalkeeper. Four minutes later a well struck long range effort from a Deeping player was pushed outside the Stotfold goal by Steve Young for a corner. The resultant corner was bundled into the net by Gianni Santoro to give Rangers the lead going into half time.

The second half started with Rangers initially on top. On 70 minutes Deeping introduced Scott Quinney for Chris Garwell. Ten minutes later the ever reliable Santoro faced with an open goal duly dispatched his second of the day to effectevly kill the game.

The final score 2 - 0 to earn Rangers a good win against a team 2 places and 3 points below them in the league.

Deeping Rangers - Bircham, Barkess, Ellison, Holland, Garwell, Nichols, Patterson, Porter, Patterson, Porter, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Sgroi, Weston, Woods.

Stotfold - Young, Pitcairn, Saggers, Cottenden, Dave Cook, Steve Cook, Morrison, Gregson, Walker, Griffith, Garrett, Hargreaves, Byrne, Allinson, Beckett, Grant, Ender, Tomlinson.

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12 October Deeping Rangers 0 v Ford Sports 1

The ball sponsor for this game was Churchill's Confectionery, and the guest of honour at the match was John Hayes MP for South Holland and the Deepings together with his son William

Having beaten Ford Sports last Saturday at their place Rangers started this fixture with the psychological advantage, and within 7 minutes of the start a Deeping header had hit the bar. On 15 minutes Ford Sports were at the other end and the ball bounced off a Deeping goal post after John Feetham had made a brave challenge for the ball, and 3 minutes later Rangers had another scare, but they defended well and managed to clear the ball.

On the half hour the home side had a chance to go in front, but the advancing Gianni Santoro could not connect with the ball, and it went out for a goal kick. Two minutes later Rangers produced the best move of the half when they tore the Fords defence apart and this time Santoro managed to get a shot off only to see it go just outside the post.

Five minutes later Ford Sports were on the counter attack, and a header across the Deeping goal was not met by anyone, and a scoring chance was missed. The first half ended goalless.

On 55 minutes Deeping had the ball in the net only to have it contraversially disallowed for offside. Again Fords counter attacked and should have scored at the other end, but the ball was cleared almost off the line with Feetham beaten. As a result of this Mat Porter had to go off for a few minutes with a nose bleed, but he soon returned to the field of play. On 64 minutes it was Deepings turn to almost score when Stratulatus failed to hold a Rangers shot but there was no-one there to follow up the rebound. A minute later Ford Sports took off Tom Waldock and replaced him with a former Rangers player Mark Drake.

Deeping also made a double substitution when Robbie Greatrex and Carl Griffiths entered the fray, as both sides chased for a winner. Mark Drake was not on the field of play for long, as 10 minutes after starting he went off injured to be replaced by B Tomas. On 80 minutes Santoro should have done better when presented with a scoring chance but shot straight at the keeper.

On 90 minutes Ford Sports were awarded a free kick just outside the Deeping area which was taken quickly. This took the Rangers players by suprise, and for the second time in 2 games they were caught napping at the back and Kazemekas slotted home the winner for Ford Sports.

Three minutes into stoppage time the game was marred by a mass brawl starting on the pitch, which resuted in two yellow cards being issued, and a Ford's player being dismissed.

Teams - Deeping Rangers - Feetham, Barkess, Ellison, Holland, Garwell, Griffiths, Korkmaz, Nichols, Patterson, Porter, Quinney, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Santoro, Sgroi, Weston, Greatrex.

Ford Sports - Startulatus, Geary, Pestell, Moss, Dowling, Bond, Evans, Murphy, Pearce, Kazemekas, Waldock, Steels, Drake, Tomas, Harry, Freed

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16 October Deeping Rangers 2 v Ford Sports 1

Deeping were slow to start this United Counties League encounter and found themselves behind after 3 minutes from a goal by Kazemekas for Ford Sports.

On the half hour a Rangers attack was started along the right wing by Matt Porter which ended with a Santoro shot into the top corner being tipped over the bar by Stratulatus in the Ford goal. A minute later both sides were on level terms when Lee Ellison's header found the back of the Sports net from a corner.

This goal brought the game alive, and five minutes later a Ford Sports free kick was well saved by the ever reliable Feetham at full stretch, the ball going behind for a corner. From this corner the hosts hit the bar and were unlucky not to regain the lead. Deeping quickly replied with a counter attack, and on 40 minutes Gianni Santoro's long range shot was just outside the post with the keeper beaten. A minute later Rangers had another good chance but their player missed the ball with the goal at his mercy and the follow up shot was off side.

The travelling Rangers fans did not have to wait long for another goal, and Deeping took the lead on 43 minutes from a Chris Garwell long range shot.

The second half started and straight away exploded in to action, with end to end football being played. The first chance fell to Deeping within a minute of the restart with a quick break, and 7 minutes later they should have gone further ahead when a Santoro pass across the goal was again missed by a Deeping player with an open net beckoning. On 63 minutes Ford Sports created a good chance from a corner but failed to score. Deeping broke away for a counter attack which ended with Santoro shooting over the bar when one on one with the Ford Sports keeper.

Two minutes later Carl Griffiths replaced Dave Weston as Rangers continued to try to kill the game. On 67 minutes a Fords player got behind the Deeping defence dribbling past two defenders before shooting wide. Rangers counter attacked and 3 minutes later Matt Porter crossed the ball into the Fords goal mouth but the following header was saved. Fords came straight back and had a chance at the other end which was also headed over. On 75 minutes Griffiths charged up the wing and passed to the waiting Santoro but he was unable to score for Deeping. Eight minutes later Deeping should have had a penalty when Santoro was brought down in the box, but the referee refused to give it. During the second half Deeping had to defend for long periods and their defence had to be on top form. At the attacking end Santoro was a constant thorn in the side of Ford Sports with his intelligent runs on the counter attack. Korkmaz was again very solid closing down Ford attacks on a number of occasions. John Feetham was excellent in goal in spite of still carrying an injury to his hand.

The travelling Deeping fans were relieved to hear the final whistle. They had been treated to a fantastic game of football, and with a 2 - 1 win Deeping Rangers had taken 3 points from a team that beat them twice last season. Man of the match has to go to Matt Porter who improves with every game. As well as defending when necessary his long runs in to the Ford Sports half caused them numerous problems, and created chances for the Rangers strikers to get forward. .

Deeping Rangers Feetham,. D Ruscillo, Porter, T Ruscillo, Barkess, Korkmaz, Ellison, Nichols, Weston, Garwell, Santoro, Quinney, Griffiths.

Ford Sports Stratulatus, Geary, Pestell, Moss, Dowling, Bond, Evans, Murphy, Pearce, Kazemekas, Waldock, Steele, Drake, Tomas, Harrhy, Freed

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Harrowby United 3 Deeping Rangers 0

Deeping’s season plunged to new depths at Harrowby United on Tuesday night. Their goal drought continued and in doing so they never managed to force one save out of opposition keeper Ian Flavell during the whole 90 minutes, as The Arrows completed a l eague double over their Lincolnshire rivals with consummate ease. After the match assistant manager Pat O’keefe suggested that injuries had left his side somewhat depleted, but in all honesty the two youngsters who came into the defence Bobby Patterson and Matt Holland gave good accounts of themselves. Indeed despite the eventual scoreline Deeping’s rearguard backed up by a superb performance from John Feetham in goal, performed well under the constant barrage. For Harrowby, Lee Marshall was quite outstanding directing operations from the middle of the park and Adam Buckley was often the source for many quality crosses from the left. Top drawer saves in the 10th, 23rd and 34th minute by Feetham somehow managed to keep the scores level. Even he was guilty of an error in the 19th minute when he dropped a cross but was relieved to see Harrowby’s skipper Mark Foster volley the drop against the post.

But with half time beckoning Rangers’ midfield backed off once too often, and the excellent Marshall wasted no time in moving into the space before slipping the ball inside to John Edwards who swept the ball home. To make matters more miserable for the few loyal fans that made the journey the heavens opened up at half time making Harrowby’s poor playing surface even more of a challenge for a very beleaguered looking Deeping side. Harrowby playing a neat passing game dominated the second period even more than the first. Abject failure by both Leigh Taylor and Gianni Santoro to retain possession up front meant that the ball was always coming back at Deeping’s overworked defence. Another excellent save by Feetham denied Foster after 55 minutes, but as Rangers’ midfield failed to exercise any control it was only a matter of time before further goals. An unfortunate slip on the tricky surface by the gallant Ade Barkess allowed Dennis Rhule to run through and score after 70 minutes. Fifteen minutes later the unlucky Barkess was adjudged to have fouled in the box when there seemed little or no contact. Martin Wormall made no mistake from the spot as Harrowby went to the top of the league and made it 11 league matches without defeat. For their part Rangers were glad to hear the final whistle to a match in which they had been totally outclassed and only brave defending and a superb goalkeeping display had kept the score respectable. Summed up after the match by Deeping stalwart Norman Fowler, “"I regard the scoreline as a win for us really, because in no way did it reflect how much better than us Harrowby were."”

Deeping Rangers: John Feetham, Matt Porter, Matt Holland, Bobby Patterson, Ade Barkess, Tuncay Korkmaz, Anton Sgroi, Scott Woods, Leigh Taylor (Dave Weston 61), Gianni Santoro (Chris Garwell 61), Carl Griffiths.

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19 October Deeping Rangers 1 v Boston Town 2

This game was the first encounter between Vince Adams' team, Deeping Rangers, and his previous team Boston Town. The first half had plenty of half chances but neither side looked like scoring. The best Rangers effort was on 25 minutes when the ball was blasted over the Boston bar. The best Boston effort was 5 minutes later when they should have scored but the ball was put just wide.

Boston opened the scoring in the second half on 49 minutes when their new signing from Bourne, Micky Nuttell slotted the ball home. On 60 minutes Rangers were awarded a corner, and the ball fell to Dave Weston just outside the Boston penalty box. His fearce shot into the top corner of the net was just tipped over by Simon Ward, who did well to get to it. Three minutes later Lee Orrey replaced Danny Matson for Boston, and Carl Griffiths went on for Dave Weston for Rangers as both sides tried to close the game down.

Straight away Deeping had a chance to equalise but shot wide. On 70 minutes John Feetham tipped the ball over the Deeping bar when it looked to be in.

Five minutes later a Tuncay Korkmaz shot was deflected in to the Boston goal and the Deeping fathful erupted into exctasy. Boston restarted the game and nearly restored the lead 5 minutes later, but Rangers counter attacked and Lee Ellison had a shot pushed outside the post at the other end. Boston introduced Ollie Pinner for Tony Brooks with 5 minutes to go as they went in search of a winner. On 90 minutes Micky Nuttell again found the back of the Rangers net to win the game for Boston.

Overall a draw would have been a fair result, but these things happen in football.

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30 October Deeping Rangers 0 v Winterton Rangers 1

Deeping Rangers played Winterton Rangers in the quarter finals of the Lincolnshire Senior A Cup at Outgang Road. Winterton Rangers play in the Northern Counties East League Division One. Deepings Manger, Vince Adams played for Winterton Rangers in the Yorkshire League for about 3 months back in the late 70's, just before he joined Gainsborough Trinity.

Deeping kicked off the game, but Winterton drew first blood when Dean Wilson scored after 5 minutes. After 15 minutes Deeping won a corner which was well taken, but good defending ensured that the ball stayed out of the net. Deeping continued to dominate the first half and had most of the possession. Lee Herrick in the Winterton goal was by far the busiest of the goalkeepers, but Deeping did not create any real chances and they were second best in the final third of the pitch.

The second half was much the same as the first with Deeping again having the bulk of the possession but failing to create any proper chances. On 60 minutes Winterton should have doubled their lead when they had two players break free with only John Feetham to beat. John saved one shot only for the ball to rebound to the other Winterton player who shot wide.mDeeping introduced Scott Quinney with 5 minutes to go as they pressed for an equaliser, but to no avail and the match ended with Winterton winning 1 - 0. This was a below par performance from the Deeping Team who have now played three home games, and lost all three by one goal.

Deeping Rangers -Feetham, Barkess, Ellison, Holland, Garwell, Griffiths, Korkmaz, Nichols, Patterson, Porter, Quinney, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Santoro, Sqroi, Weston.

Winterton - Herrick, Blanchard, Spall, Lindsey, Keel, Green, Ricardo, McDonald, Banks, Kaveney, Smith, Fenton, Nikolaidis, Edmonds, France, Richards, Exley, Wilson.

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2 November Deeping Rangers 1 v Holbeach United 0

Rangers unveiled their new signing Leigh Taylor at this local derby against their neighbours Holbeach United. Holbeach had the first proper chance of the game after 10 minutes when they beat John Feetham in the Deeping goal only for Matt Porter to head clear. Six minutes later Rangers went ahead as the result of a comical incident when the Holbeach keeper slipped and failed to collect a back pass and the ball finished up in the back of the net. On the half hour Deeping had a chance to double their lead when a good cross in from Gianni Santoro found Leigh Taylor who shot wide. Seven minutes later Holbeach again breached the Deeping defence but stout defending kept the ball out of the net. On 40 minutes a long range shot from Tom Ruscillo was pushed round the post by Kevin Cross in the Holbeach goal when it looked like it was going in to the top right corner. Holbeach replied 5 minutes later with a low hard shot which John Feetham did well to reach with a lightning dive at full stretch. Rangers deserved to go in at the interval 1 - 0 up.

Fifteen minutes after the restart Rangers had the best chance of the game when a Robinson shot was tipped on to the bar by Kevin Cross, and from the resultant corner Tunkay Korkmaz headed the ball wide. Two minutes later Deeping's Leigh Taylor beat the offside trap to get one on one with the Holbeach keeper but he should have finished better. Within a minute Robinson found himself in a similar position but this time shot wide. On 65 minutes both sides made substitutes as Holbeach went in search of an equaliser, and Rangers tried to kill the game. Omar Joof was brought on for Holbeach in place of Robert Speechley, and Dave Weston replaced Ross Nicholls for Deeping.

The substitutions seemed to revitalise Holbeach and five minutes later Deeping got out of jail when the ever reliable Feetham made a rare mistake and spilled a Holbeach shot, but his fellow players were on hand to clear the loose ball. The final score remained 1 - 0 and Deeping received a well earned 3 points against a side that beat them twice last year. This was a hard fought game, and so it was a very satisfying victory. This was really a six pointer as Holbeach started 6 points behind Deeping with 2 games in hand.

Teams: Deeping Rangers - Feetham, Barkess, Ellison, Garwell, Taylor, Korkmaz, Nichols, Robinson, Porter, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Santoro,, Sgroi, Weston.

Holbeach United - Cross, Keeble, Hepburn, Hussey, Elston, Langford,Barnes, Speechley, Childs, Joof, Markham, Keeble, Barnes, Baybrrok, Cundy, Warfield

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6 November 2004 Deeping 0 v Potton United 1

Deeping Rangers played Potton United at Outgang Road in this Eagle Bitter United Counties League Cup fixture. After 8 minutes Potton won a free kick for hand ball just outside the Deeping penalty area. Although they did not score Rangers failed to clear the ball past the half way line and a minute later the inevitable happened when Brett Donnelly put Potton ahead. Twenty minutes later they doubled their lead when Paul Donnelly hit a long range shot from outside the Rangers box over the players heads and into the back of the net.

On 35 minutes Tom Ruscillo made a good run for Deeping down the left side, from the half way line to the goal line, and managed to win a corner. Unfortunately the home side could not capitalise on this, and 5 minutes later they found themselves further behind from a Steve Kuhne looping header. At the end of the first half Rangers had another chance when Dave Robertson passed the ball to Leigh Taylor who should have done better with the finish.

Deeping started the second half with more purpose and on 50 minutes an Anton Sgroi screamer was just outside the post. Five minutes later the same player had another chance but again put the ball wide. Rangers continued to chase the game, but it was an up hill struggle, and they failed to create any real chances. The crowd of Deeping faithful were relieved when the final whistle came and they could sneek of to the bar to drown their sorrows having seen their team beaten 3 - 0 to a good strong side who are riding high in the league.

This was the end of a spell of 5 home games which brought only 1 win for Deeping, and this was arguably their worse performance of the season. The only cup remaining for them is the Hichingbroke Cup, and they are away to Blackstones in this competition on Wednesday 10th November. Their next home game is against Yaxley on Saturday 20th November.

Deeping Rangers - John Feetham, Ady Barkess, Lee Ellison, Chris Garwell, Carl Griffiths, Tunkay Korkmaz, Bobby Patterson, Matt Porte, Scott Quinney, Dave Robertson, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Gianni Santoro, Anton Sgroi, Leigh Taylor, Dave Weston.

Potton United - Roy Bloxham, Eddi Endersby, Paul Donnelly, Garry Watts, Nathan Buckland (captain), Glen Crook, Luke Donnelly, Gary Jackson, Brett Donnelly, Steve Kuhne, James Hatch, Mat Endersby, Mark Bryant, Pete Saunders, Dave Brown, Antony Schurek.

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23 November Deeping Rangers U18's 3 Harrowby U18's 0

Deepings U18 side extracted revenge on Harrowby U18's for the defeat inflicted on their first team by the Harrowby first team in the previous week. The first half was played at a cracking pace, and within 8 minutes Quinney had put Rangers in front with the first of his two goals on the night. From the restart Harrowby pressed forward with a good attack but poor finishing when they blasted over the Deeping goal. Rangers replied with a similar chance at the other end but could not do any better. On the half hour Harrowby were awarded a freekick in dangerous territory, and this produced a cracking save from the Deeping custodian. The second half started at a much slower pace as both sides calmed down to play more passing football. Although Deeping kicked off the second period the first shot in that half fell to Harrowby on 55 minutes, straight at the keeper. Ten minutes later Rangers should have doubled their lead when they produced good work down the right hand side followed by a pass across goal, but the waiting Deeping player missed the ball and a chance was lost. A minute later they made amends when Quinney netted his second goal of the night. Rangers were 2 - 0 up. In the final minute of the game a long range strike by Deepings No 14 Tony Wooding crashed into the back of the net to complete the rout at 3 -0.

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24 November Bourne 1 Deeping Rangers 2

Deeping kicked off this local derby in front of a large crowd of supporters from both sides. With John Feetham being injured, Ricky Dent played in goal for Rangers. Bourne started the more spritely of the two sides, and it took 10 minutes for Deeping to settle into the game. On the half hour Carl Griffiths picked up the ball just outside the Bourne penalty area and threaded his way through the Bourne players before picking his spot, but Martyn Lakin saved the shot. Five minutes later Bourne had Rangers under pressure and won 5 corners in succession, but failed to capitalise on the situation and the ball was eventually cleared. On 40 minutes Gianni Santoro found himself himself in a similar position to Carl Griffiths but he hit his shot over the Bourne goal. At the end of the first half the supporters were beginning to wonder where any goals would come from. Deeping were guilty of giving the ball away to easily, and struggled to clear the Bourne attacks. Rangers also needed to communicate with each other more on the pitch.

The second half started and within 4 minutes Deeping broke from a throw in deep in their own half, finishing with a first goal for new signing Bobby Lewsham. On the hour Gianni Santoro had a chance to double the lead for Rangers but headed straight at the keeper. Bourne came out on the counter attack, and Darren Munton lobbed the ball over the advancing Dent to equalise for the hosts. Ten minutes later Deeping were again on the attack when their striker was pulled back by a Bourne defender just outside the penalty area. The only person in the ground not to see the incident was the referee, much to the anoyance of the travelling Rangers fans. Shortly after that the linesman on the stand side pulled up injured and the officials had to go off whilst a replacement was found.This delayed the game for 5 minutes and gave the players and officials from both teams the chance to talk tactics and plan for a final assault as both sides went in search of a winner.

The game was restarted and on 88 minutes Lewsham again found himself in a scoring position and showed why he is a quality signing by knocking in the winner for Rangers.

BOURNE - Martyn Lakin, Jason Gough, Carl Basker, Kris Jones, Ryan Franklin, Simon Barrick, Jason Grigas, Jimmy McDonnell, Keith Gray, Darren Munton, Mark Wilson, Jason Harrison, Scott McKenzie, Alan Morris, Richard Jones, Daryl Chappell.

DEEPING RANGERS - Ricky Dent, Matt Porter, Matt Holland, Bobby Patterson, Ady Barkess, Tuncay Korkmaz (captain), Anton Sgroi, Scott Woods, Leigh Taylor, Dave Weston, Gianni Santoro, Chris Garwell, Carl Griffiths, Bobby Lewsham, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo .

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11 December Deeping 1 Wootton Blue Cross 1

This was the last home fixture at Outgang Road for the first team before Christmas. John Feetham was welcomed back in goal for Rangers, having passed a late fitness test to see if he had recovered from his thigh injury. Tunkay Korkmaz also returned to the squad, having been on holiday, to wear the captains arm band.

It was 11 minutes before Feetham was brought into action in the Rangers goal, when he pulled off a terrific save by diving to his left to stop a Wootton thunderbolt. It was another 15 minutes before the first real Deeping shot but this went just past the post. On the half hour John Feetham had to go off injured, with a dislocated finger, to be replaced in goal by Lee Peacock. The first half ended with both sets of supporters wondering where any goals were to come from.

They didn't have to wait long after the restart, as Scott Woods put the hosts in from on 51 minutes. Deeping looked to have all 3 points in the bag until five minutes from time when a Wootton player was fouled unnecessarily just outside the Rangers penalty area. From the resultant free kick Lee Peacock pulled off a wonder save, diving full length to push the ball out with one hand. The ball looked to be going round the post, but the Wootton players reacted quickest to the situation, and Ben Chambers was on hand to poke the ball in for the equaliser. Deeping pressed forward in the last 5 minutes for a winner but could not make a breakthrough. This was a game Rangers should have won, and it was two points lost rather than one point won.

Deeping Rangers - John Feetham, Lee Peacock, Matt Porter, Ade Barkess, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Scott Woods, Ross Nicholls, Lee Ellison, Leaigh Taylor, Tunkay Korkmaz, Bobby Lewsam, Dave Weston, Carl Griffiths, Chris Garwell, Gianni Santoro, Matt Holland.

Wootton Blue Cross - Gavin Keens, Tom Hole, Keith French, Dean Chapman, Michael Kirby, Darren Jones, Darek Jozwiak, Mike Newbury, Leon Cashman, Sean Bolton, Keith Snaylam, Adam Smith, Clive Woodland, Ben Chambers.

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18 December Raunds Town 0 v Deeping Rangers 2

Raunds kicked off this fixture at Kiln Park with both teams looking to return to winning ways and kick start their seasons. Dan Bircham returned from Liverpool to play in goal for Rangers in place of the injured John Feetham. Deeping fans also welcomed new signing Younis Tajer for his first game.

The game was a very competitive affair, and whilst Rangers dominated possession they were guilty of giving the ball away to easily. The Shopmates should have scored after half hour when they were awarded a corner, but the Deeping defence denied them the chance. Four minutes later new boy Younis Tajer had a chance at the other end, but failed to control the ball properly, and bundled the ball into the net with his hand. The linesman spotted this instantly, and he was duly awarded a yellow card. The first half finished 0 - 0.

Both sides contined to create chances in the second half, and on 55 minutes Deeping were awarded a corner, and Tuncay Korkmax had his header cleared of the line. On 67 minutes a good move from Tom Ruscillo ended with a cross into the Raunds penalty area and the ball was met by Carl Griffiths who looped his curling header over Michael Freeman in the Shopmates goal to give Rangers the lead. Five minutes later Younis Tajer worked his way down the other side of the pitch, and passed the ball to the advancing Carl Griffiths near the Raunds penalty spot, but this time he failed to control the ball and keep his shot down. With 10 minutes to go a Deeping player was brought down in the Raunds area for a penalty and the ball was duly dispatched by Lee Ellison for 2 - 0. Straight after this Carl Griffiths was substituted for Gianni Santoro. Raunds continued to be dangerous on the break, and Rangers were still guilty of giving the ball away to easily, but the Shopmates could not break through, and Deeping finished winning 2 - 0. It was 3 points earned by hard work.

Rangers new boy Younis worked hard in his first game, causing problems for the home side all the time, and looks to be a good signing.

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27 December Blackstones 1 Deeping Rangers 2

This was a fiercely contested local derby between two teams separated by only 1 point in the league. The first real chance did not come until the 17th minute when the home side had a header tipped over the bar by Danny Bircham in the Deeping goal. It was a reflex finger tip save. Ten minutes later Rangers were awarded a free kick just outside the Stones penalty area, and the ball was met by Lee Ellison who put the visitors in front.

On 35 minutes Ross Nicholls should have doubled the lead but shot across the Stones goal from an acute angle. Five minutes later Blackstones equalised following a bad backpass from a Deeping player which was picked up by the Stones no.10 who made no mistake restoring parity. Just before the half time whistle Younis Tajer was fouled by a Stones player and was aggrieved not to be awarded a penalty. A few minutes later a fight erupted which resulted in Younis receiving his marching orders together with 2 Blacksones players.

The second half started and Deeping proceeded to make the extra man count. They dominated the first 30 minutes of the second half, and it was only a matter of time before they scored again. On 64 minutes they were unlucky not to retake the lead when a shot went just outside the post, and 2 minutes later another shot was cleared off the line with Ollie Faulder beaten in the Stones goal. Rangers then introduced Chris Garwell for Tom Ruscillo as they went in search of the winner, and the travelling fans did not have to wait long for the break through. On 85 minutes a good ball from Scott Woods was collected by Carl Griffiths who silenced the home fans by crashing the ball into the Stones net. Blackos tried to get back into the game and grab an equaliser, but being one man short the pace was starting to tell, and Deeping defended resolutely to take all 3 points.

Blackstones - Ollie Faulder, Anton Sgroi, Matt Walker, Robbie Blowers, Mark Wood, Matty Doyle, Alex Higgins, Marcus Keirle, Aaron Ridout, Richard Nelson, Kevin Ainslie, lee Booker, James Betts, Gareth Williams, Trevor Smith, Andrew Neal.

Deeping Rangers - Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Tom Ruscillo, Dan Ruscillo, Tuncy Korkmaz, Carl Griffiths, Lee Ellison, Bobby Lewsam, Tounis Tajer, Scott Woods, Chris Garwell, Wayne Oldacre, Gianni Santoro, Lee Peacock.

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3rd January Deeping Rangers 0 Bourne Town 0

This eagerly anticipated local derby turned out to be a lacklustre affair, with both teams lacking the final killer punch in front of goal. The ball sponsor for the game was The Bourne Local, and the match was also preceded by 1 minutes silence in memory of the victims of the South East Asian Tsunami disaster. With John Feetham still injured, Danny Bircham was again called upon to keep goal for Deeping Rangers, and pulled of some outstanding saves during the game to keep the visitors at bay.

The game was 12 minutes old before the first goal scoring chance which fell to the home side, but the Rangers player headed straight at the Bourne keeper. Twelve minutes later Bourne were awarded a free kick just outside the Deeping penalty area, and Bircham had to be to be at his best to save the shot at full stretch. Rangers were quick to reply, and 5 minutes later a long range Deeping shot was tipped over the Bourne bar.

On 52 minutes Vince Adams made a double substitution when Guy Last made his debut for R angers and Bobby Patterson was also introduced to the fray in place of Scott Woods and Chris Garwell. Fourteen minutes later Deeping had their best chance of the game when a corner kick curled across the Bourne goal but two onrushing Deeping players failed to connect with the ball. Through out the game both side were guilty of giving the ball away to easily. Bourne were the better side in mid-field, but good defending from Rangers denied them chances in the final third of the pitch.

The Chairman and committee of Deeping Rangers Football Club would like to thank the players and supporters of both sides, together with the officials of Bourne Town Football Club for their generosity in helping to raise £500 for the South East Asia Tsunami Appeal. This sum was raised via a bucket collection at the game.

Deeping Rangers - Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Scott Woods, Ross Nicholls, Lee Ellison, Leigh Taylor, Tunkay Korkmaz, Carl Griffiths, Chris Garwell, Bobby Lewsam, Dave Weston, Matt Holland, Guy Last, Bobby Patterson.

Bourne Town - Mick Hurst, Jason Gough, Paul Wright, Ryan Franklin, Kris Jones, Simon Barrick, Darren Munton, Matt Glen, Jason Harrison, Keith Gray, Tommy Horwood, Scott McKenzie, Matt Tuck, Danny Grigas, Ryan Birtles.

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8 January HOLBEACH 3 DEEPING RANGERS 0

This game was played at Carters Park in very windy conditions, and Deeping again produced a poor performance against a Holbeach side that they had beaten earlier in the season. The Tigers were quickest and were constantly nicking the ball from the feet of the Rangers players, and were better at winning the second balls.It was one such occasion that led to the first goal. Dave Cobb nipped in to nick the ball from a Rangers player as he hesitated to line up a pass, and within a few seconds Holbeach had a corner. From this set piece the home side took the lead after 9 minutes when Rob Speechley scored. On 35 minutes Bobby Patterson was yellow carded for bringing down a Holbeach player who was through on goal. A free kick was awarded just outside the Rangers penalty box, but the ball was kicked straight at the Deeping defensive wall and the visitors managed to clear. In the first half stoppage time Deeping should have equalised when Younis Tajer was put through, but he should have done better than to shoot straight at Kevin Cross in the Holbeach goal. During the first half Rangers had the advantage of the back wind, but the Tigers had them under pressure for large periods of the half, with Dave Cobb being a constant threat.

The second half started with Deeping playing with more purpose, and passing the ball around better, and they had their best spell of the game. On 50 minutes the visitors were awarded a free kick 25 yards out. The ball was passed to Carl Griffiths, but he failed to keep his shot down. This was followed by two Deeping corners in succession. Ten minutes later it was the turn of the home side to have a free kick, and this time the ball floated in for Danny Hussey to beat Danny Bircham in the Deeping goal and extend the Tigers lead. On 63 minutes Rangers had the chance to reply with a free kick at the other end but they again failed to keep the shot down. Shortly after this both sides made a substitution with Aaron Last replacing Leigh Taylor for Deeping, and Danny Hussey coming on for Darren Cundy for the Tigers. On 70 minutes Deeping had their best chance of the match, and it was yet another free kick just outside the Holbeach area. Younis Tajer decided to go straight for goal, and Kevin Cross had to be at his best to tip the ball over the bar. Ten minutes later a Tom Gosling header made it 3 - 0 for the home side. Rangers made a further substitution when Gianni Santoro replaced Younis Tajer, as they continued to chase the game, but to no avail. Holbeach were deserved winners at 3 - 0. The referee was very busy throughout the game giving out yellow cards.

Holbeach United - Kevin Cross, Nick Keeble, Robert Speechley, Danny Hussey, Dean Elston, Paul Langford, Mathew Warfield, Philip Barnes, Sahun Keeble, Tom Gosling, Angus Hepburn, Steven Barnes, Simon Markham, Dave Cobb, Darren Cundy, Omar Joof.

Deeping Rangers - Danny Bircham, Matt Porter, Leigh Taylor, Tom Ruscillo, Dan Ruscillo, Ross Nicholls, Lee Ellison, Younis Tajer, Carl Griffiths, Scott Woods, Chris Garwell, Bobby Patterson, Bobby Lewson, Lee Peacock, Aaron Last.

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15 January Deeping Rangers 1 Woodford United 1

Woodford started the first half more brightly, and Rangers were slow to get going. Woodford dominated the first half, and were the better team, but neither side created any chances or looked like scoring. Deeping made changes for the start of the second half by introducing Carl Griffiths for Tom Ruscillo. This change was immediately felt, and Rangers opened the half playing with more purpose. It was however the visitors who scored first on 62 minutes. Deeping used all 3 substitutes during the second period as they continued to chase the game. On 66 minutes the home side were awarded a corner, and with Dave Marlow in the visitors goal out of place Rangers should have equalised. The shot was cleared off the line for another corner. Five minutes later they had another chance to equalise when Deeping worked the ball behind the Woodford defence. Tunkay Korkmaz failed to keep the ball down, when he should have scored. As the game drifted in to stoppage time it looked as though the visitors would take all 3 points. However Deeping never gave up and just before the final whistle Keith Gray hit a long range shot through a mass of players and in to the Woodford net. The home supporters were relieved to see their team equalise. The game ended 1 - 1 and a draw was probably a fair result as neither side deserved to win.

Deeping Rangers - Ricky Dent, Lee Ellison, Chris Garwell, Carl Griffiths, Tunkay Korkmaz, Guy Last, Bobby Lewesham, Bobby Patterson, Ross Nichoils, Matt Porter, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Gianni Santoro, Younis Tajer, Leigh Taylor, Scott Woods, Keith Gray.

Woodford United - Dave Marlow, Lewis Travers, Terry Fitton, Stuart Haynes, Rick Kimbell, Adam Knight, Nick Gordon, M Champlovier, Craig Pearmen, Tony Burt, Carl Standen, Damon Gariff, Mark Fletcher, Russ Dunkley, Tom Fountain.

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22 January Yaxley 4 Deeping Rangers 1

The start of this game at Leading Drove was delayed 5 minutes as the visitors kit was late arriving. Deeping Rangers kicked off this local derby, but the first chance fell to the hosts after 10 minutes when they shot over the goal from 10 yards out. Ten minutes later Yaxley were awarded a highly dubious free kick 20 yards out, but Ricky Dent was up to it as he punched the ball out. On 25 minutes Rangers had a chance when they were awarded a free kick 40 yards out. The ball was floated into the box for Carl Griffiths to run on to, but Jodie Vincent, in the Yaxley goal reacted quicker and managed to clear the danger. On the half hour Lee Blewitt collided with the Deeping captain Tunkay Korkmaz when they both went for a header, and the Yaxley player had to leave the pitch for treatment to a cut head. Luckily it was not serious and a few minutes later he returned to the fray. Five minutes later Deeping won another corner, and as the ball was headed in towards the goal Vincent failed to collect the ball properly. It bounced out to Gianni Santoro but he was unable to control his shot, and another chance was lost. At this point Rangers were on top, and a few minutes later they had a free kick 20 yards out. Lee Ellison stepped over the ball, and Ross Nicholls went for goal, but pulled his shot wide. The action then moved up to the other end for Peter Miller to force Rickie Dent in to a full length save. The subsequent corner was punched out and thought to be cleared only for Yaxley to return and Lee Blewitt to give them the lead with his first of the day.

Rangers had played the better football in the first half, and the second half started in the same vain. Within 10 minutes of the restart Ashley Stevens, who has just signed for Deeping from Yaxley, scored a well deserved equaliser. A few minutes later Rangers made a substitution when Tunkay Korkmaz, who was carrying an injury he picked up earlier in the game, was taken off to be replaced by Guy Last. Gianni Santoro then had a chance to put the visitors ahead, but he should have done better with his shot. On 69 minutes Lee Blewitt got his second of the game, and 2 minutes later his hat trick, to effectively kill of the game. Deeping refused to give up however and continued to press forward and create chances. On 77 minutes Lee Ellison found himself one on one with the Yaxley custodian, but failed to score. On another day he would have put that one in the net. Three minutes in to stoppage time Ricky Hailstone made it 4 - 1 to the hosts and the travelling Rangers fans went home dejected. Their team had played some good football, and were the better team for large parts of the game and deserved to get something from the match.

Yaxley - Jodie Vincent, Lewis Richardson, Chris Gospel, Michael Goode, Steve Burns, Lee Blewitt, Ricky Hailstone, Dale Watkins, Mark Paul, Jimmy Dean, Peter Miller

Deeping Rangers - Rickie Dent, Matt Porter, Dan Ruscillo, Bobby Patterson, Tunkay Korkmaz, Lee Ellison, Ross Nicholls, Carl Griffiths, Keath Gray, Ashley Stevens, Gianni Santoro, Guy Last.

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1st February Boston Town 1 Deeping Rangers 1

Deeping finally got to play this game at Boston's Tattershall Road Ground after the original fixture was cancelled due to fog. Dan Jarman played in goal for Rangers with Ricky Dent and John Feetham both injured. Boston went ahead on 33 minutes with a looping header over Dan Jarman. The scorer appeared to be offside, but neither the linesman or the referee spotted this. The visiting Rangers fans did though. Two minutes later Dan Ruscillo pulled up injured and was replaced by Aaron Last for Deeping.

Rangers made other changes at half time, and after the break they played their best football. Deeping had the hosts pinned back in their own half for long periods of time, and came forward with waive after waive of attacks. Rangers were the better side, and it was only a matter of time before they made a breakthrough. Tom Ruscillo was a constant thorn in the side of the Boston team with his long runs down the left side, and Bobby Patterson was at his best at the back stopping any counter attacks. On 65 minutes Carl Griffiths replaced Tom Ruscillo as Rangers turned up the tempo going in search of an equaliser. It wasn't until the 90th minute that they managed to break through, with a goal from defender Matt Porter. The travelling fans went wild with delight as justice was done following the initial offside goal. Rangers continued to press forward in the remaining seconds of the game, but could not produce a winner.

Boston Town - Scott Loach, Kris Jones, Jason Vaughan, Nathan Collins, Shaun Baker, Ben Harris, Danny Matson, Paul Goodhand, Micky Nuttell, Ben Naylor, Matt price, Tony Brookes, Dave Scotney, Steve Appleby.

Deeping Rangers - Dan Jarman, Matt Porter, Bobby Patterson, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Ross Nichols, Lee Ellison, Bobby Lewsam, Keith Gray, Scott Woods, Carl Griffiths, Guy Last, Aaron Last, Gianni Santoro.

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5 February Desborough Town 4 Deeping Rangers 4

This game had the visiting Rangers fans feeling euphoria and despair and all the emotions in between as the game twisted and turned. There was certainly excitement galore as both side played good passing football. Deeping kicked off the match at Ar Tarn, and as early as the 4th minute they were awarded a freekick 20 yards out which Guy Last blasted straight at the Desborough custodian Paul Beresford. Five minutes later Rangers were forced to make their first substitution when Lee Ellison pulled up with a reccurance of an old hamstring injury. He was replaced with Tunkay Korkmaz returning himself from an injury. Desborough's first shot at goal came on 10 minutes with an header from a corner which went just wide. The home side were very dangerous from set pieces, and it was from another corner on 16 minutes that they took the lead. The ball was played straight out from the corner to Brian Jeffrey lurking on the edge of the box who shot through the legs of a melee of players and into the back of the net. This delighted the home fans as their side had not scored in the previous 2 league games. On the half hour Desborough made a substitution when Shaun Diver was replaced by Scott Marshall. Four minutes later Rangers were awarded a free kick 25 yards out from the Desborough goal but this was wasted as it went straight to a home player. Desborough created a counter attack and Dan Jarman did well in the Deeping goal to spread himself wide and deny a scoiring chance.

Just before half time Rangers created a piece of footballing magic to turn the game on it's head. A pass from Matt Porter was not held by Paul Beresford in the Desborough goal, and Bobby Lewsam was on hand to stick the loose ball in the net. Another goal either side of half time resulted in Bobby scoring a hat trick in 2 minutes 58 seconds - a record for any team in the UCL . CONGRATULATIONS BOBBY.

On 55 minutes Desborough again made a substitution as they endeavoured to get back in the game with Graeme Archer replacing Tony Page. Two minutes later Rangers should have extended their lead when a Tom Ruscillo shot was cleared. Three minutes later Guy Last mad no mistake as he rounded his marker to slam the ball in the Desborough net to make it 4 - 1 to the visitors. At this point the game should have been over and Deeping should have shut shop but there was further twists to come and on 63 minutes Scott Marshall reduced the deficit when he beat Dan Jarman. A minutes later Mike McConnell scored again for Desborough as Rangers appeared to go to sleep, and the game was now on again at 4 - 3.

Then came a moment of gross stupidity when Tom Ruscillo was red carded for foul and abusive language and Deeping were left to play the remaining 25 minutes with only 10 men. They were not going to give up easily though, and Vince Adams immediately made changes taking off Bobby Lewsam and replacing him with Carl Griffiths. The visiting fans also rallied around their team and increased the noise as they urged them on, and Rangers were immediately back on attack with Matt Porter making a searing run out of defence. On 75 minutes Desborough made another substitution replacing Eddie Mills with Simon Riley as they went in search of the equaliser. The introduction of fresh legs against a 10 man opposition was starting to take it's toll, and Deeping were put under constant pressure for the last 15 minutes of the game. With 5 minutes remaining Desborough won a free kick 25 yards out which Dan Jarman turned around the post for a corner. This was eventually cleared. The home side continued to press forward, and on 90 minutes Scott Munton scored the equaliser to make it 4 - 4 Rangers refused to give up without a fight and even in stoppage time created a scoring chance from a corner but Tunkay Korkmaxz headed wide from a position he has scored from on numerous occasions. The game ended 4 - 4 and the Deeping fans will see this as 2 points lost as their team threw away a 3 goal lead.

Desborough Town - Paul Beresford, Andy Greensmith, Scott Marshall, Bryan Jeffrey, Glyn Davies, Jimmy Simpson, Mike McConnell, Eddie Mills, Jamie Gilsenan, Matty Curtis, Tony Page, Eddie Mills, Shaun Diver, Scott Munton.

Deeping Rangers - Dan Jarman, Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Bobby Patterson, Scott Woods, Matt Porter, Guy Last, Aaron Last, Ashley Stevens, Keith Gray, Lee Ellison, Ross Nichols, Carl Griffiths, Gianni Santoro, Bobby Lewsam.

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12 February Deeping Rangers 1 Northampton Spencer 1

This game at Outgang Road was played in atrocious conditions, with gale force winds, rain and hail. Rangers had a stand in goalkeeper from Grimsby, Glenn Hammond, with Dan Jarman away on holiday. Deeping started the first half playing into the wind and should have taken the lead on 5 minutes when Aaron Last had his powerful header saved by the feet of Wayne Hamill in the Spencer goal.In spite of playing the better football it was Spencer who scored first with Paul Pickering hitting the back of the net on 29 minutes. Twelve minutes later parity was restored when Ashley Stevens turned his marker and fired into the visitors net. The second half continued with Rangers dominating play and on 50 minutes they were awarded a freekick but unfortunately this was blasted over. On 58 minutes Deeping stepped up a gear and Wayne Hamill became the busiest man on the pitch. First Bobby Lewsam was one on one with Hamill who saved well for a corner. Two minutes later it was the turn on Ashley Stevens to go one on one with the Spencer keeper but again he did well to save. A minute later Tom Ruscillo had his turn, with the Spencer keeper again pulling of a fine save to keep his team in the game. On 61 minutes Spencer made the first substitution with Paul Pickering being replaced by Scott Coleman. On 65 minutes Ashley Stevens should have scored for Rangers when he headed straight at the Spencer keeper. The action then reverted to the other end where Darren Frost outpaced Scott Woods to get a cross in at the Deeping goal line but Scott Coleman missed his shot. On 73 minutes Ross Nichols released Bobby Lewsam on the half way line when he proceeded to run straight at the goal, but blasted over. Two minutes late the Spencer captain Nullatamby hit a screamer which went just wide of the Deeping goal. Deeping were then on the attack again and Ross Nichols brought a save from Hamill who palmed the ball away for a corner. Before the ball was cleared Tom Ruscillo also had a go seeing his shot pushed over the Spencer bar. On 81 minutes Rangers made a substitution replacing Bobby Lewsam with Keith Gray. Spencer also made a substitution bringing on Matt Ablett and taking off Dan Harris. Both sides continued to entertain the crowd but neither team could make a breakthrough and the score remained 1 - 1.

Deeping Rangers - Glenn Hammond, Carl Griffiths, Tunkay Korkmaz, Aaron Last, Guy Last, Bobby Lewsam, Bobby Patterson, Ross Nichols, Matt Porter, Tom Ruscillo, Gianni Santoro, Scott Woods, Ashley Stevens, Keith Gray, Matt Stinson.

Wayne Hamill,Julian Anger, Dan Chilton, G Nullatamby, Josh Urquhart, Phil Reynolds, Matt Ablett, Chris Davies, Darren Frost, Adam Wigley, Paul Pickering, Scott Coleman, Dan Harris, Mick Heath.

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February 15th St Neots 0 Deeping Rangers 0

Deeping Rangers were hoping to do the double over St Neots when the two teams met in this encounter at Rowley Park on the coldest night of the winter. Deeping welcomed back Dave Robertson from a long suspension, and his presence was noticeable as he organised the midfield and talked to the players. Lee Peacock played in goal for Rangers and had a quiet night, not having to make a real save. The hosts had the ball in the back of the net within the first 5 minutes but the goal was disallowed for a foul on the keeper. On 25 minutes Aaron Last's shot hit the foot of Ricky Holmes in the St Neots goal, and bounced off his feet and on to the crossbar. It came down outside the line and although Aaron tried to follow on the keeper smothered the ball. On 34 minutes St Neots won a corner which resulted in a Deeping scare. The ball was played in to a crowded goal mouth and looked to be going in but came out off a defenders chest. Three minutes later St Neots no 7 Jason Mannion hit a screamer of a shot over the bar.

At half time Keith Gray was replaced by Gianni Santoro who was a constant threat with his deft footwork and intelligent running into the St Neots half. The first 10 minutes of the second half were dominated by Deeping, and Ross Nichols should have scored but hit his shot over. On 60 minutes the ball was played across the St Neots goal and Ashley Stevens should have done better when he failed to contact with the ball in front of an open goal. Six minutes later Stevens had a chance to make amends when he ran into the St Neots box, but Ricky Holmes did well to dispossess him of the ball. On 70 minutes St Neots started to exert pressure on the visitors and were on top for the next 10 minutes. On 90 minutes Ross Nichols blasted his shot wide for the last chance of the game.

This was the third draw on the trot for Deeping Rangers, and was another game they dominated and should have won.

St Neots - Ricky Holmes, Cameron Clark, Russell Lawes, Damien Matthews, Nicky Hurst, Simon Claridge, Tom Hobbs, Barry Dellar, Pete Saunders, Danny Griggs, Ryan Jenner, Michael Cox, Joe Jordan, Clive Woodland, Jason Mannion, Adam Smith.

Deeping Rangers - Lee Peacock, Tom Ruscillo, Bobby Paterson, Scott Woods, Matt Porter, Aaron Last, Ashley Stevens, Keith Gray, Leee Ellison, Ross Nichols, Gianni Santoro, Tunkay Korkmaz, Dave Robertson.

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19 February S & L Corby 1 Deeping Rangers 4

STEVENS HAT-TRICK GIVES RANGERS WIN

Having drawn the last 4 games and still played good football and created good chances Rangers were threatening a win at any time. Lee Peacock played in goal for Rangers this time and was outstanding in his performance. Deeping started this game at Occupation Road playing up the slope.

During the first half S & L were the better side, winning numerous corners as they pressed forward. It was from one of these corners on 23 minutes that they took the lead when the ball bounced off the bar and hit Bobby Patterson for a deflection into his own net.

What ever was said at half time seemed to do the trick, and Rangers were a revitalised team in the second half. As early as the 48 minutes they won a free kick 20 yards out, and Ross Nichols made no mistake with his direct kick into the back of the net. Ten minutes later the hosts were awarded a freekick at a similar distance at the other end, but shot over. On 67 minutes Ashley Stevens headed over at the far post following a corner, but two minutes later he got his just reward when he found the back of the net for the first of his hat-trick. Three minutes later Matt Porter tried to get in on the act for the visitors with a tremendous 25 yard strike which Willie Gourlay did well to stop, diving at full length to his right. This was followed by a period of S & L pressure when Lee Peacock had to be at his best to make 2 reflex saves in 5 minutes to keep Rangers in the game. On 86 minutes Stevens got his second of the afternoon and completed his hat-trick a minute later.

Stewart & Lloyds - Willie Gourlay, Ian Wood, Chris Hamill, Mark Forbes, John Mackay, Gareth Robb, Greig McIlwain, Chris Power, Dominic Johnson, Derek Simmons, Matty O'Neill, Trevor Duncan, James Morrow, Pete Sneddon.

Deeping Rangers - Lee Peacock, Matt Porter, Scott Woods, Bobby Patterson, Tuncay Korkmaz, Guy Last, Ross Nichols, Aaron Last, Bobby Lewsam, Ashley Stevens, Tom Ruscillo, Keith Gray, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Giani Santoro.

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Deeping Rangers 0 Potton United 4

Deeping entertained championship chasing Potton United at Outgang Road for the second time this season, having played them in the League Cup. Ricky Dent again played in goal for the injured John Feetham, although he was himself carrying an injury to his leg picked up in the pre-match warm up. Rangers kicked off this fixture, but it was Potton who had the first chance when they were awarded a dubious penalty after 8 minutes. Ricky Dent appeared to play the ball, but the Potton player went down. The spot kick was dispatched by Potton's no 9 Brett Donelly. Six minutes later Potton were again on the attack and Ricky Dent was beaten in the Deeping goal, but the ball was cleared by Scott Woods. The action then moved up the other end where Rangers won a corner. The ball was played short to Gianni Santoro, but his cross was to high and the ball went out of play and a chance was lost. On 25 minutes the referee again made a dubious decision when he cautioned Ashley Stevens for a challenge on Brad Gillham in the Potton goal. A lot of spectators considered it to be a fair tackle. Two minutes later Guy Last released Carl Griffiths who beat the Potton offside trap. He lobbed the advancing keeper and should have scored, but the ball hit the post and went off for a goal kick. Just before half time Santoro played a cross in to the Potton goal mouth, and Brad Gilham only just managed to get a hand to the ball. Unfortunately he was unable to hold the ball, and there was no Rangers player on hand to finish the move of.

The second half started with Deeping the better side. They were passing the ball araound and playing good flowing football. However it was Potton that struck first and on 52 minutes they should have doubled their lead but Dent saved with his feet.Two minutes later Steve Kuhne made no mistake. Potton won a corner, and the ball fell straight to the Potton player to head in. Potton continued to press the attack and within another two minutes were 3 - 0 up when Brett Donelly chipped Ricky Dent from 25 yards. On 59 minutes Potton made a substitution with Antony Schurek replacing Mat Endersby, and a minute later Eddi Endersby was brought on for James Hatch At this point in the game Deeping badly missed the presence of the injured Tunkay Korkaz to marshall the mid-field. The double substitution payed off and within 5 minutes Potton were again awarded a penalty. Although Dent dived the right way he failed to stop Brett Donnelly scoring his hat trick. Rangers never gave up, and continued to create chances. On 73 minutes the ball was passed in to the box for Ashley Stevens to dive for a header, but he failed to connect. Three minutes later Deeping made a substitution when Aaron Last replaced Ros Nicholls. Potton also made a substitution introducing Andy Carter for Gary Jackson. The score remained at 4 - 0 as Potton continued to exert pressure at the top of the League. A Potton official remarked after the game that Deeping Rangers were the 3rd best side they had played all season.

Deeping Rangers - Ricky Dent, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Tunkay Korkmaz, Guy Last, Bobby Patterson, Ross Nichols, Matt Porter, Dan Suscillo (Capt), Gianni Santoro, Ashley Stevens, Scott Woods, Scott Quinney, Ryan Asher-Powell, aaron Last.

Potton United - Brad Gillham, Eddi Endersby, Paul Donnelly, Nathan Buckland (Capt), Glen Cook, Gary Jackson, James Hatch, Brett Donnelly, Steve Kuhne, Mat Endersby, Antony Schurek, Mark Brant, Pete Saunders, Luke Donnelly, Roy Bloxham, Andy Carter.

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9 March Wootton Blue Cross 2 Deeping Rangers 1

Having played some of the best football of the season at the weekend Rangers came down to earth at relegation battling Wootton Blue Cross. The first chance of the game fell to Deeping after 8 minutes when they won a corner. The ball was delivered well into the box and flicked towards goal but kept out by Michael Kavanagh. On 15 minutes Rangers player Dave Robertson almost headed into his own net. Lee Peacock had to be at his most alert to clear the ball off the line with one hand. Five minutes later Peacock again had to be at his best to save at the feet of a Wootton player who was through on goal. Although the striker went down the Wootton appeals for a penalty went unheaded. Shortly after Rangers had a goal disallowed for offside. On 27 minutes Wootton were awarded a penalty and this time they made no mistake with the spot kick. Four minutes later parity was restored when Kavanagh spilled an Ashley Stevens shot when he was one on one with the keeper, only for Gianni Santoro to be on hand to slot in the rebound.

The sides went in at half time on even terms. Rangers started the second half by replacing Tunkay Korkmaz who had picked up an injury in the first half with Bobby Patterson who had played so well for the U18's the night before. During the second half Deeping were second best. They were guilty of giving the ball away to easily, and were pinned back in their own half for large periods of time. Having said that they defended well, and it wasn't until the 85th minute that they made an error which Wootton capitalised on to head home. The Deeping fans would have been satisfied with a draw for their team, but it was not to be on the night.

Wootton Blue Cross - Michael Kavanagh, Ashley Hilton, Tom Hole, Steve Gentle, Liam Meenaan, Alex Giscombe, Leon Cashman, Darek Jozwiak, Ben Chambers, Chris Johnson, Gavin Hoyte, Lee Hottinger, Jamaal Dixon, Scott McGregor.

Deeping Rangers - Lee Peacock, Tom Ruscillo, Dan Ruscillo, Matt Porter, Bobby Patterson, Tunkey Korkmaz, Scott Woods, Ross Nicholls, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Ashley Stevens, Gianni Santoro, Keith Gray, Matt Holland, Bobby Lewsam, Chris Garwell.

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12 March Stotfold 3 Deeping Rangers 2

The travelling fans from Deeping descended on Roker Park hoping to do the double over Stotfold in the league. Due to injuries and unavailability Vince Adams gave a number of youngsters a chance in this game, and they did well on the day. The home side started the strongest putting Rangers under pressure. Wes Byrne was a constant threat to the visitors defence with his speed and skill, and he should have scored more than once in the half. After 14 minutes Stotfold won a corner. The ball was delivered well for Dave Cook to fire through a crowded goal mouth to beat Lee Peacock and put the hosts in front. Just before the half hour a well worked ball put Gianni Santoro through on goal for Deeping, but the ball was taken from his feet from behind by a home player, with only the keeper to beat, to deny him a scoring opportunity. On 40 minutes Gary Walker nearly scored again for Stotfold putting his shot just wide of the far post. This was followed by a period of Stotfold pressure and a couple of minutes later a bad back pass from Dan Ruscillo was intercepted by Wes Byrne who slotted the ball past Lee Peacock to give the hosts a 2 - 0 lead.

Rangers were given a real rollocking at half time and came out a better team. On 52 minutes Scott Woods was replaced by Andy Ellis, and his first probing run into the Stotfold half seemed to spur the visitors in to life. Three minutes after coming on Andy Ellis ran the fiull length of the pitch and passed to Ross Nicholls waiting in front of the home goal , but he failed to keep his shot down, when he should have scored. On 60 minutes Rangers won a free kick about 20 yards out. The ball was blasted in to the defensive wall and went out for a corner. From this Stotfold mounted a counter attack, and a minute later they won a corner. From this set piece Lee Allinson put them 3 - 0 in front. Deeping then substituted Scott Quinney for Gianni Santoro as they went in search of a goal. With 15 minutes remaining Carl Griffiths dribbled the ball into the Stotfold penalty box and delivered a cross at the far post for Ashley Stevens to head home. Four minutes later Carl Griffiths was again provider for Ashley Stevens to score with his feet. It was now game on at 3 - 2 with Deeping totally in contol and looking for an equaliser. Stotfold were starting to panic and with 5 minutes to go Rangers were awarded a freekick 19 yards out. This was taken straight for goal, and Steve Young did well to get his fingers to the ball and tip it over for a corner. Deeping continued to press forward looking for an equaliser but could not make the break through on the night. The host team running out 3 - 2 winners to take all three points.

Stotfold - Steve Young, Jamie Taylor, Adam Pitcairn,Ian Morrison (Capt), Gareth Cottenden, Luke Gregson, Keith Coughlin, Wes Byrne, Gary Walker, Paul Garrett, Lee Allinson, Steve Cook, Scott Rennie, Phil Gray, Kane Dougherty, Adam Saggers, Luke Garwood, Richard Beckett.

Deeping Rangers - Lee Peacock, Dan Ruscillo, Matt Porter, Bobby Patterson, Scott Woods, Ross Nicholls, Andy Ellis, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Ashley Stevens, Gianni Santoro, Keith Gray, Matt Holland, Bobby Lewsam, Chris Garwell, Scott Quinney.

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26 March Deeping Rangers 3 Daventry 2

Considering England were playing Northern Ireland at the same time, a reasonably large crowd watched this return fixture between two teams that played on the first day of the season. The visitors were the first to draw blood when they were awarded a dubious penalty after 16 minutes. The spot kick was slotted past Rangers custodian Dan Jarman by Kevin Eales to put Daventry in front. Deeping were quick to reply, and a minute later they won a corner from which Keith Gray equalised. For the rest of the half Rangers were in total control, and dominated play. On 19 minutes Dave Robertson should have scored when he hit a long range shot from 30 yards out which went wide of the far post. The Deeping fans did not have long to wait before their side took the lead. On 23 minutes Ashley Stevens stretched for the ball together with Daventry keeper Mark Moss. Ashley got his foot to the ball first to score the best goal of the game. Two minutes later Stevens was at it again this time scoring with his head. The half ended with Deeping 3 - 1 in front.

At the start of the second half Rangers took off Scott Woods and replace him with Chris Beeby. On 60 minutes Daventry pulled one back when their No.9 lost his marker to slot the ball past Dan Jarman when one on one. This was followed by a period when Deeping appeared to loose their way, and Daventry were getting the upper hand, and looking dangerous. Although Daventry created a number of scoring chances their shooting was wild and erratic. On 78 minutes Vince Adams made a double substitution for Rangers, taking off defender Bobby Patterson and striker Ashley Stevens, to replace them with Gianni Santoro and Lee Ellison. This seemed to steady the ship and the hosts were able to create chances with counter attacks and take the pressure off their defence. Five minutes from the end Daventry took Phil Richardson off and put Paul Adkins on as they tried for an equaliser, but Deeping held on to take all three points and record only their second double of the season.

Deeping Rangers: Dan Jarman, Jean-Paul Duncliffe, Lee Ellison, Carl GRiffiths, Keith Gray, Guy Last, Bobby Patterson, Ross Nichols, Dave Robertson, Dan Ruscillo, Gianni Santoro, Ashley Stevens, Scott Woods, Chris Beeby.

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28 March Deeping Rangers 2 Blackstones 3

Poor finishing and poor refereeing combined, contributed to Deeping dropping 3 points at home to local rivals Blackstones. Blackstones started the brighter team and during the first 15 minutes created the better chances. It was the hosts however that scored first when Ross Nichols chipped Richard Stainsby in the Blackstones goal after 29 minutes. A minute later they should have doubled the lead but missed when faced with an open goal. The lead was to be short lived as Jamie Gilsenan scored a soft goal to equalise on 32 minutes with the Deeping defence asleep. On 40 minutes Blackstones made the first substitution when they took off Gareth Williams and replaced him with Marcus Kierle. The Rangers fans expected to see an improvement in their sides play following the break, but this was not to be. On 50 minutes Stones won a corner, and the ball was cleared off the line by a Deeping defender. On 55 minutes Keith Gray should have put Rangers in front but shot straight at the keeper. Nine minutes later he was taken off and replaced by Gianni Salerno. Shortly after, the ball went off on the far side and the linesman flagged for a throw in for Deeping, but the referee overruled and gave it to Blackstones. This lead to an exhange between Rangers manager Vince Adams and the referee, and Vince receiving a red card. On 67 minutes Marcus Keile ran into the Deeping box and appeared to foul Rangers custodian Dan Jarman, although this was not spotted by the referee. With Dan on the floor the Stones player dribbled the ball into the goal to put the visitors in front. On 70 minutes Rangers made another substitution as they tried to steady the ship. Bobby Patterson was taken off and replaced by Tom Libbertore. This seemed to work as 5 minutes later Dave Roberston's pass found Gianni Santoro whose shot would have ripped the net had it not bounced in off the far post. This brought the two sides level. With 5 minutes to go Deeping made their final substitution when they replaced Ross Nicholls with Aaron Last. On 87 minutes Blackstones won a corner. the ball was delivered well into the box and flicked into the goal by Richard Nelson. This was a familiar story for the Rangers faithful as once again their team lost points in the final minutes of the game, although they remain in the top 10 of the league..

Deeping Rangers - Dan Jarman, John-Paul Duncliffe, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Keith Gray, Tunkay Korkmaz, Aaron Last, Guy Last, Bobby Patterson, Ross Nicholls, Dave Robertson, Dan Ruscillo, Gianni Santoro, Tom Libbertore, Chris Beeby (sub not used).

Blackstones - Richard Stainsby, Matt Walker, Mark Wood, Bobbie Bloweres, Matthew Doyle, Gareth Williams, Aaron Rideout, Richard Nelson, Alex Higgins, Jamie Gilsenan, Lee Booker Marcus Keirle. John Kyte and James Betts (subs not used) .

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2 April Deeping Rangers 0 Buckingham Town 1

Deeping were poor in this game compared with previous weeks, and although they created chances they never looked like actually scoring. In the 23 minutes the usually reliable Dan Jarman made his only error of the match when he failed to hold the ball from a Ruben Max-Grant cross, and the ball finished up in the back of the net. Seven minutes later Rangers top scorer Gianni Santoro had a shot saved by Sean Griffiths who was also unable to hold the ball, but there was nobody there to follow up and claim an equaliser. On 40 minutes Deeping had another scoring chance when Dave Robinson passed to new signing Gareth Jones whose shot was just outside the post.

Shortly before half time Buckingham's no.2 Paul Stanley was cautioned by the referee. He was about to receive a yellow card when he spoke to the referee who promptly changed it to a straight red and the visitors were down to 10 men.

In the second half Buckingham were the better side in spite of having a man short. On 48 minutes Rangers had an escape when Dan Ruscillo headed off the line with Dan Jarman beaten. Seven minutes later Jean-Paul Duncliffe saved Deeping when he also headed off the line. On 60 minutes Deeping made a substitution when Ashley Stevens was brought on in place of Gianni Santoro, and 10 minutes later Gareth Jones and Ross Nicholls were taken off and Keith Gray and Carl Griffiths were introduced to the fray as Rangers went looking for an equaliser. The Deeping faithful were hoping that the fresh legs against a tiring 10 man opposition would bring dividends. On 77 minuters Moses Olaeye went down in the Rangers box and whilst the referee had not seen an infringement the linesman flagged for a Buckingham penalty. Dan Jarman redeemed himself for his earlier error when he dived the right way and saved the spot kick. The home team were unable to make a breakthrough in the closing minutes of the game and Buckingham gained their revenge for the 3 ponts Deeping had earned at their place the previous month.

Deeping Rangers - Dan Jarman, John-Paul Duncliffe, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Keith Gray, Tunkay Korkmaz, Guy Last, Ross Nicholls, Dave Robinson, Dan Ruscillo, Gianni Santoro, Ashley Stevens, Tom Libertore, Gareth Jones Subs not used - Aaron Last, Bobby Patterson.

Buckingham Town - Femi dada, Morell Maison, Lee Orcheston, Abdul Abdi, Stuart Blaik, Dave Fenton, Lance Gentle-King, Junior George, Sean Griffiths, Rory Hunter, Ruben Max-Grant, Moses Olaeye, Lee Orcheston, Lewis Reid, Paul Stanley, Geoff Sharp, Pete Riches.

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26 April Deeping Rangers 0 v Desborough 2

Having returned to winning ways the previous Saturday the Rangers fans had high hopes for this penultimate fixture of the season, having drawn with Ar Tarn previously. The visitors had the better of the early exchanges, but as the game progressed Deeping got into their stride and started passing the ball about and creating chances. On the half hour Lee Ellison should have put Rangers ahead when he dribbled into the Desborough penalty area and let loose a thunderbolt shot which Paul Beresford did well to save diving full stretch to his left to punch the ball out. Five minutes later Ar Tarn took the lead when Anthony Page eluded the offside trap to put the ball in the net.

In the second half Rangers continued to play good pasing football, and creating chances. Paul Beresford was the busier keeper, but his saves kept the home side at bay. On 65 minutes Desborough extended their lead when Tom Mills slipped his marker, side footed Carl Griffiths and slotted the ball past Dan Jarman. Shortly after this Vince Afdams made a substitution for Deeping when he took off Bobby Patterson and replaced him with Aaron Last as they tried to make a break through. In spite of the home side continuing to create chances they couldn't find the back of the net and Ar Tarn finished winning 2 - 0.

Deeping Rangers - Dan Jarman, John-Paul Duncliffe, Lee Ellison, Carl Griffiths, Tunkay Korkmaz, Aaron Last, Bobby Patterson, Ross Nicholls Dan Ruscillo, Tom Ruscillo, Ashley Stevens, Scott Woods, Subs: Aaron Last, Matt Porter (not used).

Desborough - Paul Beresford, Grant Mawsby, Tom Mills, Mike McConnell, Glyn Davies, Anthony Page, Matty Curtis, Danny Steed, Scott Munton, Nathan Mitchell, Mark Pallett, Subs: Gary Clarke, Nathan Booker.

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April 30 Deeping Rangers 2 Raunds 0

This was the final game of the season for both teams with Raunds having escaped relegation and Rangers looking for a top 10 finish. This was a match that Deeping Rangers dominated throughout. After 4 minutes Ashley Stevens robbed a Raunds defender and burst into their penalty area but missed the target when one on one with the keeper. On 15 minutes Stevens was brought down in the Raunds penalty box. He took the kick himself, but it was well saved by Michael Freeman diving to his right. 5 minutes later Deeing were awarded a free kick just outside the Raunds area. The kick was taken by Tom Ruscillo and the ball was met by the head of Ashley Stevens who finally managed to find the back of the net On 40 minutes Aaron Last was introduced to the fray in place of Tom Ruscillo who was carrying an injury.

The second half continued with Rangers dominating. On 58 minutes Ross Nicholls set up Ashley Stevens for his second to double the home teams lead. Deeping used all their remaining substitutes during the half as they continued to press forward, but Michael Freeman in the Raunds goal kept them at bay and the score remained 2 - 0

Deeping Ramngers - Dan Jarman, John-Paul Duncliffe, Scott Woods, Tom Libertatore, Tunkay Korkmaz, Guy Last, Ross Nicholls, Lee Ellison, Ashley Stevens, Carl Griffiths, Tom Ruscillo, Gareth Jones, Aaron Last, Matt Porter.

Raunds Town - Michael freeman, Simon McCarthy, Martin Lewis, Nick Ashby, Martin Mitchell. Warren Donald, Ian Burt, Adam Hancock, Duane St John, James Fox, Jed Angle, Gavin Fitzgerald , Callum Mains, Wayne Simmons.

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2003/04 Summary

Opposition	Home result (Deeping first)	Away result (Deeping first)	aggregate	Points
Blackstones	3-1	0-0	3-1	4
Boston T	2-1	1-0	3-1	6
Bourne Town	1-0	2-2	3-2	4
Buckingham Town	2-3	1-6	3-9	0
Cogenhoe	0-2	1-3	1-5	0
Daventry	2-2	0-2	2-4	1
Desborough	0-1	2-0	2-1	3
Ford Sports	0-1	0-3	0-4	0
Harrowby	2-1	3-0	5-1	6
Holbeach Utd	1-2	0-4	1-6	0
Long Buckby	1-0	3-2	4-2	6
Newport Pagnell	1-1	1-0	2-1	4
Nortampton Spencer	2-5	0-1	2-6	0
Raunds	1-1	4-1	5-2	4
St Neots	1-4	1-2	2-6	0
S&L Corby	0-3	2-2	2-5	1
Spalding Utd	3-1	1-1	4-2	4
Stotfold	0-3	1-1	1-4	1
Woodford	1-3	1-1	2-4	1
Wootton Blue Cross	0-3	0-1	0-4	0
Yaxley	0-3	1-5	1-8	0

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