FOUR goals to the good within the first 25 minutes, Rutland Rangers cruised to victory against Stamford Belvedere on Saturday.

Second from bottom Bels were no match for Rangers' explosive start to the game.

Robbie Pearce turned home the opener in the opening minutes and turned provider for Michael Nelson to score his first for Rangers since returning from a long lay-off after ten minutes.

Nelson broke free of the Bels defence 10 minutes later to rifle home number three and just five minutes later Simon Cranwell took the ball on his chest before half-volleying the fourth into the net.

Rangers boss Andy Saddington said: "We were four up in 25 minutes and then switched off. Fair play to Bels they came out fighting after the break. They didn't want to lose the second half."

Both sides failed to convert penalties with top scorer Robbie Pearce's shot well saved by the Stamford keeper.

Rangers sit fourth in the league, hot on the tails of the leading trio and with two games in hand of top side Whittlesey.

Now Saddington hopes Rutland rivals Uppingham will maintain their current form and do his own side a favour.

Uppingham are unbeaten in eight and Saddington said: "Hopefully they will take points off the teams around us."

On Saturday Rangers face an unpredictable Oundle who began the season in terrible form but have picked up lately and could spring a surprise.

Saddington said: "We will not anything for granted."

Action from Rutland Rangers win over Stamford Bels on Saturday. Photo: SM130210-071js