FC Isle of Man will face its Guernsey FC counterparts in the second annual Skipton Cup in July.

Sponsored by the Guernsey-based bank Skipton International, the football tournament between the Ravens and the Green Lions will take place on Saturday, July 17 at the Bowl, with the deciding leg in Guernsey on Saturday, July 31.

Both matches will kick-off at 6.30pm, with live music and entertainment making for a real family occasion.

This follows last year’s successful tournament - which made use of the airbridge between the two islands - when the teams bonded so well that discussions were soon underway to facilitate an annual two-match event.

The Green Lions (Guernsey) currently hold the silverware and the Ravens are excited to challenge for the trophy this year. Both clubs are keen to take advantage of the unique relationship the two islands have formed.

FC Isle of Man assistant manager Lee Dixon has spoken of his delight at the news: ’It’s fantastic to have this opportunity to play for the Skipton Cup again. Last year’s game in Guernsey was a great experience to all involved, as was our inaugural friendly game at the Bowl.

’From our perspective, the chance to play high-quality opposition in Guernsey FC is really valuable as it will hopefully be part of our pre-season preparation for the 2021-22 North West Counties Football League season.

’I am sure that playing for a trophy will bring in the large crowds again for both games which will be a superb occasion for both sets of players.’

Skipton International has signed a three-year agreement to sponsor the matches and the company’s managing director, Jim Coupe, said: ’We understand the healing power of sport, and are hugely excited for this year’s Skipton Cup tournament after a tough year for everyone.

’The matches between FC Isle of Man and Guernsey FC will provide sporting excellence for fans across both crown dependencies.’

FC Isle of Man’s commercial manager, Ty Smith, is equally upbeat about the upcoming July matches:

’It is really exciting for the club to compete again against the Green Lions, this time over two legs and, with the Skipton Cup at stake, it promises to be an exciting couple of fixtures for both sets of fans.

’FC Isle of Man, Guernsey FC and Skipton International are all organisations which build strategically and plan for the future.

’The Skipton Cup will form an integral part of both clubs’ pre-season preparations for the years to come. It will not only provide both sets of supporters with the tantalising prospect of seeing their team lift some silverware, but will also mean that travelling fans get to enjoy the best of each island’s tourism, whilst providing the Isle of Man and Guernsey with economic benefits.’

GFC director Nic Legg said: ’Guernsey FC were absolutely delighted to win the inaugural Skipton Cup last year, especially after the drama of a penalty shootout!

’This year we have the extra interest of the game being played over two legs. After a testing 12 months with very little to cheer about, the confirmation of the fixtures is really good news.

’We hope many of our fans will be able to join us in the Isle of Man and we look forward to welcoming the Ravens to Footes Lane.

’The squad can’t wait to walk out at the Bowl and, of course, we will be giving it our all to make sure we keep hold of the Skipton Cup on July 31’.

Brian Kelly, of travel organisers Wayfarers Travel, said: ’We are delighted to be involved with the Skipton Cup given our connection with both islands. We have great fan packages available for those wishing to fly to Guernsey and support the Ravens.’

Tickets will be going on sale shortly. Three-night packages are available for the Guernsey fixture, including direct flights and hotel, starting at £377. A full refund will be given should Covid restrictions be in place.

Provisional reservations can be made at either Richmond Travel telephone 621770, or email [email protected] or Mann Link Travel by telephone on 815588 or email via [email protected]