Match Preview

After a somewhat muted September the domestic game finally gets going this Saturday with two ties in the Manx Shield. At Ballakilley Park, Southern Nomads take on Ramsey while at Poulsom Park, Castletown host Western Vikings.

The Ramsey v Nomads clash looks to be as tasty as ever. Nomads lost away at New Brighton in the Cheshire Bowl last week but picked up a try bonus points which is no mean feat. Ramsey are two from two in the Cheshire Plate and only need a single point from their last fixture to book a spot in the final.

Nomads are solid at half-back and with Tony Quinn and Jacob Halstein in the back line, they have plenty of pace to finish. Ramsey are probably a little stronger up front and have a pacy back line of their own with the points machine Brandon Atchison lurking on the wing. On paper, Ramsey will fancy the win here, but discount Nomads on their own turf at your peril.