The magic of the FPI FA Cup provides a welcome distraction for several sides this weekend when the first round proper takes place.

An interesting match could unfold at Springfield Road where Division Two high-fliers Pulrose United play host to Premier League outfit St John’s.

The Saints have produced some standout performances, most notably drawing against St George’s and beating Rushen United. Likewise, Pully have set Div Two alight at times during the campaign with their swashbuckling style of attacking football led by the likes of Stephen Glover, Barry English and, more latterly, Marc Priestnal. Should the hosts play to their potential, then a close game could be in store.

A close battle could play out on the adjacent pitch at Springfield Road where Douglas Athletic and Douglas Royal compete for a place in the next round. The teams are only separated by two points in the table - in DAFC’s favour - but the Whites’ form is marginally better. Despite that, Athletic claimed a bif scalp in the previous round by beating DHSOB and they will be hoping to embark on another cup run.

Premier League leaders Corinthians will start as favourites when they host Laxey at Ballafletcher but there was very little to separate the sides when they locked horns earlier in the season, Danny Gerrard’s goal the difference in a 1-0 win for the Whites.

Ramsey and Braddan are embroiled in a relegation battle at the moment and so they will be happy to turn their attentions to the cup when they go head-to-head at Ballacloan. The Swans will start as slight favourites but home advantage could play a big part for Ramsey.

The latter’s neighbours RYCOB face a mammoth task when they travel to Premier League heavyweights Peel, as do Colby who welcome St George’s to the Station Fields .

At least one Division Two side will be in the hat for the second round of the competition after the draw produced an all-second division contest. League leaders Castletown travel from the ancient capital to the new capital where they take on Gymns in Tromode.

Town have already completed a double over Tony Sewell’s men thanks to 6-0 and 4-1 victories and the Mets will be favourites to make it three from three, but on their day Gymns could make life difficult for the southerners.

The final game of the day is the late kickoff at the Bowl between St Mary’s and Ayre United. With the Saints improving under player-manager Alex Harrison, the hosts will be expected to comfortably see off their second division visitors.