Hard working performance earns a point for Scarva

And after the third meeting in as many weeks it was perhaps little surprise that the latest clash ended in deadlock.

Stranmillis raced into a first half lead but the visiting keeper had to make two saves in quick succession to repel shots from Dean McCammon and Kyle Jennett.

The equalising goal arrived a short time later when Darren Clarke swept a free kick to Wes Baird and the Rangers player’s dangerous cross was turned into his own net by an unfortunate Stranmillis defender.

A crucial save from Paul Davidson ensured the contest remained all square at the half time interval.

Early in the second half Derek Patton met a McCammon cross with a diving header that was parried away by the Stranmillis keeper. Neil Anderson arrived first to head home but the goal was chalked off for offside.

At the other end only a timely goal line clearance from Kyle Jennett prevented the visitors from retaking the lead.

Stranmillis appeared to be in the driving seat to claim all three points when the hosts were reduced to ten men.

But a hard working performance from Rangers in the remaining 30 minutes ensured they emerged with a well-deserved point.

They even managed to carry an attacking threat despite the one man disadvantage, the keeper saving from a Jennett free kick and in the closing stages from a McCammon shot, a chance created after some determined play from Greg Douglas.

Best for Scarva Rangers – Wes Baird and Kyle Jennett.