Skipton International has announced the dates of this year’s Skipton Cup.
The football tournament between Guernsey FC and FC Isle of Man, will take place on Saturday 17 July on the Isle of Man, with the deciding leg taking place at Guernsey’s Footes Lane ground on Saturday 31 July.
This follows last year’s successful tournament, when the teams bonded so well that discussions were soon underway to facilitate an annual two-match event. The Green Lions currently hold the silverware and are excited to have the opportunity to defend their title.
Both clubs are keen to take advantage of the unique relationship the two islands have formed. Skipton International has signed a three-year agreement to sponsor the matches.
Skipton International 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 Guernsey FC and FC Isle of Man will provide sporting excellence for fans across both Crown Dependencies. We already have a number of savers residing in the Isle of Man, and look forward to welcoming some of them, and their friends, to Guernsey over the coming years.”
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 31 July”.
FC Isle of Man Commercial Manager, Ty Smith, is equally excited 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 and 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 both the Isle of Man and Guernsey with economic benefits”.
Tickets go on sale on Friday 19 March at 10.00. Special three-night packages are available for the Isle of Man fixture, including direct flights and hotel. Guernsey residents who wish to take a short break on the Isle of Man are also welcome to book this package for a short holiday.
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 packages available for those wishing to fly to the Isle of Man and support The Green Lions”.
The Guernsey price, including a match day ticket, return direct flights and three nights’ accommodation starts from £362.00 per person. MONIES ARE FULLY REFUNDABLE SHOULD COVID RESTRICTIONS BE IN PLACE.
Reservations can be made at Wayfarers World travel in Guernsey, telephone 249070 or email travelshop@wayfarerstravel.co.uk
Tickets for the Guernsey fixture can be booked via the Guernsey FC website found here.
