The draw for the preliminary round of the ECAP-sponsored FA Cup was made on Saturday afternoon.

All of the competition’s so-called heavyweights have been kept apart, with only one all-Premier League clash being produced.

That game in question sees Railway Cup finalists St George’s welcome fellow top flight side Marown to Glencrutchery Road.

Reigning FA Cup champions Corinthians will begin the defence of their crown with a potentially tricky trip to Mullen-e-Cloie where they will face Division Two leaders St John’s.

Premier League pacesetters and Railway Cup finalists Ayre United will be heavy favourites to get the better of second division side Pulrose United in Andreas, as will Laxey who welcome Governor’s Athletic to Glen Road.

In similar fashion, Douglas Royal will be hoping to continue their fine start to the season with a short trip to face Douglas Athletic at Springfield Road.

There’s a potentially big clash scheduled for the south of the island where Division Two title and promotion hopefuls Malew and Onchan lock horns at Clagh Vane, while Foxdale will start as favourites to get the better of Braddan at Billy Goat Park.

Elsewhere, Ramsey - who are enjoying a fine season in the Premier League - will be aiming to kickstart a good cup run when they welcome Division Two side Douglas and District to Ballacloan Stadium.

Rushen United, DHSOB, RYCOB, Castletown, Michael United, Union Mills, Peel and Gymns have all been given byes into the first round proper.

Ties to be played on Saturday, January 8 at 1.15pm.