Rangers came up against a lively and determined opposition in this FA Cup opener. Sports showed their intent from the off and in only the third minute, Josh Moreman attacked down the left where he fad Mark Jones and his first effort was saved by Whitehouse and his follow up hit the bar. Rangers briefly responded but Gregory’s effort was way over.

On six minutes Moreman again fed Jones from the left and as he turned inside curled a shot into the far corner to give the hosts the lead. Rangers again responded with a weak effort as Langston went well wide but it was Sports who carried the danger, with Moreman, Jones and Viera being a constant threat. On 31 Geohaghon was booked for a block on Viera and Sports couldn’t capitalise on the free kick. Sherratt then had Rangers first serious effort as he forced Butcher into a double save. Moreman ensured Sports finished the half on top as he fired wide from 20.

The second half started at a higher pace but now it was Rangers forcing the issue. Westwood and Bailey both had early chances blocked before Gregory picked up and found the bottom corner from 20 yards to level. Rangers continued to make it a game of two halves as Gregory, Sherratt and Westwood all came close as Rangers piled it on. On 68 minutes with the hosts under more pressure, Batchelor pounced on the ball and slotted home from six yards to give Boro a deserved lead. The game was never going to be a foregone conclusion, with both teams going for it.

On 77 Lewis Webb rose unchallenged at the back post to draw things level again then on 84, Dan Lawlor was booked for a foul, some way outside Spirts’ box and Jack Langston stepped up to curl a free kick in off the post for 3-2. Sports again hit back and attacked from the restart and the dangerous Moreman levelled things again! With both teams capable of snatching something it was Boro who came strong at the end and Batchelor again popped up to seal the result and send the travelling band home happy.