The Saints fought hard but went down 4-3 at Dangar Street, Kempsey in thrilling match.

The Port players were hampered by early-match nerves and found themselves down 2-0 reasonably quickly, but stepped up as the match went on to almost share the points.

They would have seen something on the table for their efforts, but a late Rangers goal secured all three goals for the opposition.

Luke Rogers (2) and Michael Bishop scored goals for the Saints.

Coach Tony Judge was a proud man earlier this week.

"I'm proud of all the boys' efforts," he said.

"It was pleasing how they stepped up to be three all after being down 3-1 at halftime.

As with all losses though, it was frustrating for Judge.

The goals against the Saints were caused by structural problems, with players still getting used to the speed of the top grade.

"I was a bit disappointed," Judge said.

"These were things we'd worked on at training."

Bishop's goal was the highlight of the day. He struck home from the top of the box after a good run down the right.

The Saints also had a goal disallowed for offside.

The Port team plays at Findlay Park in round two of the competition in a fortnight's time. They take on Port FC.

Judge said his players would lift for the home derby after getting the monkey of the first game of the season off their backs.

"It was a learning experience for all the boys," he said.