Whites Reserve 2 Manhattan Celtic Reserves 0.

On a crisp Sunday evening at Pier 40, Los Blancos met with the newly promoted Manhattan Celtic for a league clash. The reserves got off to a scrappy start — fits of fluid play followed by elusive possession. Despite the determination of Andres and Brettski in the middle of the park, the Rangers seemed to step their play down to the level of the opposition. Indeed, the Celtics' main strategy seemed to be a physical one, with blind challenges and flailing tackles flying in left and right. The first half ended 0-0.

In the second half, the hard-working Celtic team continued to close down the Rangers' space very well. While the Whites Reserves did seem to dominate the proceedings, we found it hard to find a break through. Nevertheless, late in the game a bit of quality from Shane provided the go ahead goal. The skillful front man found himself in behind the hoops' defense and when faced by the keeper coolly lifted the ball up, over and into the back of the net. 1-0 Rangers. With the game winding down, CPR debutant Cedric gave the score line a more comfortable appearance. CPR's newest signing signaled his arrival with a screamer of a shot from just outside the box into the far right post. French cheers could be heard roaring from the sidelines.

In the end, CPR were able to prevail in a game that was disjointed at best, but look to push on and regain their fluid form to take the league.

Line up: Ben R(K), Dan C(LB), Rob O(CB), Mark S(CB), Joachim(RB),  Alex(RW), Andres(AM), Brettski(DM), Shane (LW), Amos(F), Cedric(F) Subs: All Used Chris B(DM), Jacopo (LW), Dan P(LB)