Team Taranaki set to name playing squad

Team Taranaki will on Tuesday name a squad of 20 players to play in this year's Central League Football competition.

Coach Ian McGrath confirmed yesterday the selection process would be finalised after this weekend.

Team Taranaki continued its pre-season programme with a comfortable 4-1 win against the New Plymouth Rangers premier side at Merrilands Domain in New Plymouth on Thursday night.

New Team Taranaki signing Mark Christensen scored two goals from midfield in the first half, the first a dipping, long-range shot from 20 metres and the second a calmly taken penalty which he earned himself.

It capped an excellent 45 minutes from the former Hamilton Wanderers and Ngaruawahia United player in the Northern League.

McGrath was clearly impressed with Christensen's skill level, saying later he was technically very good on the ball, comfortable in possession and an excellent addition the squad.

Christensen has a history of scoring goals from midfield at Northern League level and this showed again in the game against Rangers. "He will make an impact this year," McGrath said.

Team Taranaki conceded a goal after Rangers took advantage of a quick free kick it was handed by the referee, close to the rep side's six-yard box.

Up 2-1 up at halftime, Team Taranaki made five substitutions and continued to dominate the game.

John Sigurdsson extended the lead to 3-1 midway through the half and an own goal sealed the 4-1 win.

Team Taranaki squandered numerous good scoring opportunities in what proved a worthwhile hit out against a competitive opposition.

Team Taranaki will play Central League opponent Palmerston North Marist in its final pre-season game at Hawera today.

- © Fairfax NZ News