Rugby: Douglas to host newly-promoted Wilmslow in season opener

Manx side begin latest Regional 2 North West campaign this weekend

Report by Dave Christian:

Newly-promoted Wilmslow are the visitors to Port-e-Chee this weekend as rugby continues its stuttering start to 26/27. 

Wilmslow topped Counties 1 last season and lost just twice on the way to the title, North West 2 will, however be a big step up for them especially with Douglas sitting at the top end after last season.

Douglas finished fifth, but picked up six losing bonus points from games which finished with a score or less between the teams. 

This should give coach Phil Cringle some assurance that the squad isn't too far away, those six narrow defeats would, if turned into wins, have given them a top-two finish.

Douglas warmed up well with games against Scarborough and Cill Darra - one or two players may have even played small cameos last week against Ramsey and with no reported injury worries.

This game gives Douglas a great chance to start the season in winning ways.

**

FIXTURES

Saturday, 12 September, 2026

Regional 2 North West 

Douglas vs Wilmslow (3pm KO @ Port-e-Chee)