JOSE CAMACHO (pictured) came off the bench to head a second half winner at KGV on Saturday and with it deal a blow to previously unbeaten Vale Rec’s title hopes.
It was a terrific, disciplined and hard working victory over the leaders who saw plenty of the ball but just could not break down our magnificent defence playing ahead of the ever dependable Seb Sheppard.
It might have been described as glorious but the late serious injury to Steve Renouf tempered celebrations among the red and blacks who started with four U18s and, all told, had eight youngsters in the matchday squad as well as 19 year old ‘veteran’ Jacques Cauvin.
It was another tactical masterclass from our fantastic coaching team and while Chris Tardif admits he wants to play in a more enterprising fashion, the plan to sit back and allow Rec to come on to the home side, worked a treat.
‘We decided to sit in and the guys did it very well. There was a real togetherness and team spirit.’
Kyle Fossey had an outstanding game at centre half in partnership with Cauvin, while Josh Fallaize had another strong game at right back, likewise Chris Hackeson on the left.
With the home side missing a long raft of players due to injury - it has been that sort of season -
Rec had the bulk of the play before half time and were generally restricted to half chances, but Rangers had couple of serious chances themselves from one of which Christian Povall made a great save for the visitors.
‘Shep’ also made a couple of important saves and in the second period Zac Batiste’s persistence paid off with the cross which allowed sub Camacho to head home.
Camacho had been called into action in the first half when youngster Leon Solano, who is showing great promise in recent opportunities, took a knock and was forced off.
Young Pearce Le Poidevin also took a knock and was replaced by fellow first year U18 Charlie Le Lacheur. Veteran Joe Clatworthy was a second half sub for the injured Hackeson which meant that after Renouf’s unfortunate injury we had to play out the final few minutes with 10.
As for that injury, the midfielder dislocated his knee when he turned awkwardly on the soft surface.
Clearly in great pain, an ambulance was called and it seems he will undergo surgery today (Sunday).
Chris Tardif is devastated for the player who had been terrific throughout his maiden season in Rangers colours.
‘He has been great for us, showing great character and responsibility.’
All at Rangers wish Steve all the very best.

Team
Seb Sheppard; Josh Fallaize, Kyle Fossey, Jacques Cauvin, Chris Hackeson; Steve Renouf, Shane Billien; Zac Batiste; Leon Solano, Steffan Timms, Pearce Le Poidevin.
Subs used: Camacho, Le Lacheur, Clatworthy.
Unused: Patterson and Wall.