Old Mutual Douglas kick off their second campaign in North One West on Saturday afternoon when Blackburn visit at Port-e-Chee.

The visitors finished seventh last season in the league, with ninth-placed Douglas seven points behind and left ruing a frustrating afternoon at Ballafletcher last October when Blackburn held out for a 3-7 victory in driving wind and rain.

Both teams have had successful pre-season friendlies, with De La Salle beaten at Blackburn 36-10 and Douglas outlasting Premier North side Wirral 14-12 at Port-e-Chee.

New signing Mike Dunnett scored on his Douglas debut and looks a handy addition at back-row or hooker, but he is unavailable on Saturday.

New Zealander Todd McDowell steps in at prop for a first Douglas appearance as Chris Bollen and Simon Hoddinott remain injured, while Dan Creer is rewarded for Celts success.

The back-row conundrum is a healthy one, with skipper Niall Killey, Sam Games, Paul Leivers, Craig McGee and Liam Kirkpatrick contenders.

A step forward to second-row for one beside Max Singer may resolve the issue, but Dom Winrow also comes into the equation after his Celts performances.

Will Cain would appear favourite for the scrum-half berth, with Bryn Snellgrove, Conor Stephens and Guy Wood key players outside.

Lance Wyllie is likely to start at centre after his sevens league experience in Australia and with Aidan O’Shea temporarily sidelined.

It’s a rejuvenated Carl Murray and Adam Boyd on the wings, and Guy Wood at fullback should provide counter attack entertainment.

Kick-off is 2.30pm.

Squad:

Robert Todd, Carl Markl-Ferns, Todd McDowell, Max Singer, Paul Leivers, Niall Killey (captain), Sam Games, Liam Kirkpatrick, Will Cain, Bryn Snellgrove, Carl Murray, Conor Stephens, Lance Wyllie, Adam Boyd, Guy Wood, Dom Winrow, Craig McGee/Dan Creer, Duncan Wilson.

Fixtures: Saturday, September 1

North One West

Douglas v Blackburn @ Port-e-Chee ko 2.30pm

Lancashire/Cheshire Three

Ramsey v Newton le Willows

@ Mooragh Park ko 1.30pm

Prenton v Vagabonds @ Prenton

Southern Nomads Bushy’s Beach Rugby

Five-a-side in the sand

from 1pm at Port Erin Beach

l Round-up of all the weekend’s rugby in next week’s Isle of Man Examiner, on sale Tuesday.