There’s a tasty southern derby in store on August 18’s opening day of the new Manx football season.

Castletown mark their return to the Canada Life Premier League by hosting southern rivals Rushen United at the Stadium in what looks like to be the day’s stand-out fixture.

Reigning top-flight champions St George’s open their 2018-19 campaign with a visit to the Bowl and St Mary’s, while FA Cup winners Corinthians face Rick Holden’s St John’s at Mullen-e-Cloie.

Elsewhere in the CLPL, Peel host Douglas Royal, Douglas Athletic take on DHSOB and Braddan face Laxey.

Last season’s two relegated sides, Ramsey and Colby, go head-to-head on their return to JCK Division Two.

The other opening-day match that catches the eye sees new Pulrose United player-manager Steven Priestnal begin his managerial career against Onchan at Groves Road.

John Roberts begins his tenure as Foxdale manager away at Governor’s Athletic, while Union Mills host RYCOB at Garey Mooar.

Ayre United kick-off their season at home to Gymns, Malew welcome Michael United in the second tier’s other game.

The second set of fixtures will be played on Sunday, August 26 to avoid clash with the Classic TT.

All fixtures subject to approval at next Tuesday evening’s FA council meeting.

Saturday, August 18

2.30pm kick-offs

Canada Life Premier League

Douglas Athletic v DHSOB

Castletown v Rushen United

St John’s v Corinthians

Braddan v Laxey

Peel v Douglas Royal

St Mary’s v St George’s

JCK Division Two

Pulrose United v Onchan

Union Mills v RYCOB

Governor’s Athletic v Foxdale

Ayre United v Gymns

Ramsey v Colby

Malew v Michael United

Combination fixtures reversed.

* The Eric Fletcher Charity Shield between St George’s and Corinthians is provisionally down to be played on the evening of Tuesday, August 14.