Donning their new strip didn't bring Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers any accompanying good luck. Barely had they kicked off, when visitors Papamoa intercepted the ball and two passes later they had it in the back of Rangers' net.
The home team shrugged off this shock and determined to get their game going. The welcome return of Richie Nillesen, after a lengthy injury, gave the midfield impetus and saw Rangers frequently on the attack. Papamoa were happy to play a counter-attacking game. However, Rangers crosses weren't finding their targets and promising attacks were thwarted by some determined tackling.
The second half saw Rangers having a lion's share of the play but without getting too many shots on goal. Late in the game three incidents proved Rangers luck was out. Striker Jeremy Hawkes got through the Papamoa defence only to be crudely chopped down from behind. The guilty defender was sent off but the free kick couldn't get past the wall. Substitute Dan Baxter struck a thunderous drive from 20 metres which the visiting keeper saved brilliantly and then in the final minutes Ben McPherson's close range shot was also well saved.
Papamoa were delighted with their 1 - 0 win, this was the first time the two teams had met in league action since 1999. Rangers however will have to get over their frustration and put some chances away in their next game, away to AFC Fury Two. Rangers' player of the day was Simon Gowing, who impressed with some good runs down the right wing.