Wollongong United's title defence in the Fraternity Club Cup hit an early snag after falling 2-1 to Port Kembla on the opening night of the pre-season competition on Thursday.
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A 65th minute strike from former attacker Bradley Acev helped the Zebras overcome last season's champions at Macedonia Park.
Port's Nuno Pires had earlier opened the scoring in the second half before Zac McLaren pulled United level ten minutes later.
Both clubs have had a change of coaching in the off-season, with Steve Dimitrievski taking the reigns at Port and Icko Atanasoski on-board at United.
United have won the pre-season tournament for the past three seasons, including a 5-0 demolition of eventual League double winners Bulli in last year's decider.
Bulli went onto to outgun United when the two clubs met again in the regular season grand final.
Meanwhile, Corrimal Rangers kicked off their Cup campaign on the right note with a 4-0 demolition of South Coast United.
Rangers weapon Van Elia was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick.
Cup action for IPL clubs continues over the weekend, with Cringila and Tarrawanna set to face off on Friday night.
On Sunday, Albion Park White Eagles play Woonona at Barrack Heights Sports Ground while while IPL new boys Coniston battle Wollongong Olympic and Bulli meet Fernhill Foxes at Unanderra Oval.
All District League clubs will also suit up for their opening round games.
