Stafford 1 Farsley Celtic 0

Steve Bull got Stafford Rangers new Blue Square North season off to a winning start - and got his own back on the side who ruined his first day as a football manager.

On-loan teenager Tom Thorley netted the all-important points-grabber, midway through the second half of gruelling opening day clash with Farsley Celtic.

Just five months ago the Yorkshiremen humbled Rangers and Bull in front of his friends, family and a huge Marston Road crowd when he took over a sinking ship.

Now, with a new team and a new work ethic, Rangers have points on the board from the outset.

They were made to work for it and, in spite of all the new faces, it was old hands Danny Alcock and Wayne Daniel who made the biggest contribution.

Club captain Daniel was his usual rock-solid at the heart of defence, with Alcock making two stunning second half saves.

Rangers also had what they missed most last season - a slice of luck. That came in the shape of a 69th minute header from Farsley's Rory Prendergast in front of an open goal. It struck a post and rebounded clear.

Less than 60 seconds later, at the other end, Thorley's 15 yard right footer also hit a post - and went in.

Of the new boys, Dave McPherson made a big impression in midfield, where Carl Palmer also ran his guts out. The Blue Square North lacks the class of the Premier section. Rangers are going to need the workhorses to make any headway in this division.

David McNiven gave a tantalising glimpse of his eye for goal, with an outrageous 40 yard lob that was only inches away.

Stafford: Alcock, Thorley, Reid, Wilson, Daniel, Amos, McPherson, Palmer, McNiven (87 Dovey), Wellecomme, Loukes (80 Ingram).

Subs not used: McMahon, Morris, Allen.