New Zealand Football has joined other members of the football community in mourning the loss of former national representative Alex Juner, who was also a well-respected referee.

Not long after arriving from Scotland as a young man, Juner joined Miramar Rangers as a defender in 1954 and played for the Wellington club for the next ten years, although he did miss the 1958 season when he spent some time in Christchurch.

In 1957, he caught the eye of the national selectors and became the first Miramar Rangers player to be named in a national team.

His sole appearance for New Zealand came in a 7-1 loss to FK Austria at Athletic Park in Wellington.

Juner stayed involved with the game after his playing career, joining the refereeing ranks and officiating in Wanganui for a number of years.

He went on to become patron of the Wanganui Football Referees and supported the region’s match officials from the sidelines in all weather.

But he never forgot his allegiance to Miramar Rangers and could often be seen at home games, even when ill over the past year.

As well as his deep football knowledge, he was known for his smile, passion and humour.

He passed away peacefully last Saturday at the age of 86 and is survived by his wife Jennifer and family.

Article added: Tuesday 10 September 2019