After a season of interruptions with two lockdowns and the Hospital, Woods and Cowell Cup not contested, the Manx football season will finally come to a close this evening (Wednesday).

The Ascot Hotel Junior Cup final provides the last competitive action of the 20-21 campaign with Rushen United taking on Douglas Royal at the Bowl.

The history of the two teams within the competition is very different.

Rushen, who finished third in the Combination One, will start as favourites, reaching the final for a record 22nd time, having won combination football’s showpiece trophy a record 17 times.

The Port Erin outfit will bring their supporters from the south, some wearing bandanas and flags, adding a party atmosphere to the evening.

Opponents Douglas Royal finished seventh in Combi One and will be making their first appearance in the final of this competition.

However, their result against then favourites Peel in the semis last week has certainly raised eyebrows.

They will be looking to replicate that kind of performance in front of their own fans to win this trophy for the first time.

Twenty one points separated the two sides in the league.

This is the cup, however, and anything can happen, which makes this final the more intriguing.

Kick-off at the national stadium is 7pm.

Paul Hatton