Programme Editor and First Team Goalkeeping Coach Ryan Pratt previews tonight’s game away to Khalsa Football Federation.
Paget Rangers travel to basement side Khalsa Football Federation this Tuesday the 24th August looking to bounce back from two recent defeats to Ashby Ivanhoe and Wolverhampton Sporting Community.
The Bears put on an improved display on Saturday at home to Wolves Sporting, dominating possession and creating a multitude of chances. As a team and as individuals, Rangers were superb but just failed to convert their opportunities in front of goal. Debutants Ryan Tait, Josh Brown and Jarrell Hylton started their Paget careers well with solid performances.
This time around, they face 19th placed Khalsa Football Federation, formerly known as Smethwick Rangers, who are winless this season and lost 7-0 at Darlaston Town 1874 on Saturday afternoon, after a fantastic individual performance from Darlo striker Andy Nicol who scored all seven goals. KFF, a club that has played their football in the West Midlands Regional League until this season, are managed by Juan Dopazo, former Gornal Athletic gaffer and Walsall FC academy coach with UEFA coaching qualifications, who has been at the club for just over a year.
The opening day saw Juan Dopazo’s team travel to Heath Hayes where they found themselves on the end of a 4-1 loss, Samuel Kayode scoring Khalsa’s goal. Khalsa Football Federation’s last two games were played at the Beeches, first a loss against Coventry Copsewood, Copsewood returning back home with the three points following a 3-1 win, Zach Brown scoring the home side’s goal. Last midweek the club lost 4-0 to Bilston Town Community, before travelling to Darlaston and losing by seven goals.
A few players to look out for. Goalkeeper Declan Haire has been a star performer for the side, keeping the score down in numerous games, impressing with his distribution and making some vital saves. Forward Samuel Kayode has been awarded ‘opposition man of the match’ on three occasions this season and has been crucial in creating chances and starting attacks. Junior Enongene is a calming influence at the back and very good on the ball. Joel Powell is an important cog in their machine, and a focal point of their attacks. Also, Zach Brown is sharp in front of goal and has already opened his account for the season.
Khalsa Football Federation play at Packwood Rd, Tividale, Oldbury, B69 1UL, groundsharing with Midland Football League Premier Division outfit Tividale. Kick off is 7:45pm and admission is £5 for Adults and £3 for Concessions.
Paget will be looking for a third win of the season as they are on their second game of a run in of four games in nine days which started on Saturday.
Come and support the Bears and roar them on to a win!!!