SATURDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER
KICK OFF 14.00
The Regional Two North West table lists several teams new to the Division, but the national league opener brings back Firwood Waterloo to Port-e-Chee in a continuation of some riveting level 6 contests. The concluding fixture of last season saw Douglas beat Waterloo 25-17 at home, and starting off in a similar vein would be a real boost for a much changed Douglas. Harry Hewson’s move off-island and Bradley Bowmar’s return to New Zealand leave big boots to fill, but the rejuvenation of Blake Snell after long term injury and continuing improvement by Sam McCord are major plus marks. Max Fairburn joins the squad, and community officer Brett Pyke from New Zealand fills a midfield spot. Up front, Simon Hoddinott remains a key component to Douglas success, and coach Phil Cringle has made the pre-season preparation as challenging as possible. Not given to praise lightly, Cringle is quoted as being impressed by all the squad, especially youngsters Percy Hampton, Jack Shimmin, Connor Garland, Kyle Martin and Callum Dentith. Given a guiding boot from goal-kicker Luke Hyland, Douglas will be in the hunt again.
