AFTER a run of three friendly matches without defeat, including a creditable draw against a Malvern Town XI, Rangers came down to earth with a bump when they entertained league newcomers Archdales 73 in their first Saturday Premier Division fixture of the new season.

MALVERN RANGERS 0, ARCHDALES 73 4

During the first 15 minutes the majority of the play was in midfield with neither side dominating, until a hopeful long ball forward led to Archdales taking the lead with a bizarre goal.

There appeared to be no danger when Mick Lowe headed the ball back to Phil Birch in the Rangers goal, but it took an unpredicted bounce, looped up over his shoulder and trickled into the net. It wasn't long before Archdales increased their lead. Once again Rangers were caught in possession, and when the ball found it's way to John Stallard on the left wing he hit an unstoppable shot.

It got worse five minutes later, Simon Hughes chased a ball that the Rangers player's thought was going out, he kept in play, cut in and squeezed the ball into the corner of the net.

At this point Rangers did begin to push forward, and five minutes before half time should have pulled a goal back when Marc Kitchener pulled his shot wide of the post. In the first half injury time Archdales increased their lead with Michael Seldon thumping the ball into the net.

The half time "discussions" seemed to work as Rangers improved their work rate and created several chances. David Beats was played through by Schuster, but his shot cannoned off the keeper's head and out for a corner.

Beats, was then replaced by Steve Rawlings, and his first touch of the ball was a shot that hit the crossbar.

John Rooney replaced Roger Kitchener, who added more bite into the midfield, but although more chances were created, Rangers were unable to find the net.

Ranger's man of the match was Brendan Watson.

Rangers play hosts to Bishampton at Victoria Park (hopefully) on Saturday. Players to meet at the ground at 2pm, kick off 3pm.