History failed to repeat itself as Tonbridge crashed to an opening-day defeat at Maidenhead.

The Angels kicked off their maiden Blue Square Bet South campaign with a 4-0 win at York Road a year ago, but it was a very different tale in Saturday's opener.

Chris Piper’s goal, a minute after half-time, had levelled the scores at 1-1 but Maidenhead re-took the lead and made it 3-1 it in the closing stages to put the result beyond doubt.

Maidenhead went ahead when former Angel Paul Semakula unleashed a long-range drive which gave Lee Worgan in the Tonbridge goal no chance.

Tommy Warrilow’s side restored parity on 46 minutes. Rory Hill collected a pass from George Purcell and when his shot was pushed out by keeper Billy Lumley, Piper was on hand to smash home the rebound.

It was almost 2-1 moments later but Olly Schulz could only head Frannie Collin’s cross over the bar.

Maidenhead responded and they were given a penalty when substitute Reece Tilson-Lascaris was fouled by Schulz. Bobby Behzadi stepped up to score from 12 yards.

Worgan pulled off a terrific save to deny the dangerous Tilson-Lascaris but Tonbridge’s fate was sealed in added time when David Pratt latched on to a long ball and lobbed home Maidenhead’s third.

Tonbridge challenged by Maidenhead on Saturday Picture David Couldridge