The curtain was officially raised on the Manx football season with a dramatic Eric Fletcher Charity Shield on Friday evening when Premier League champions Ayre United faced off against FA Cup winners Rushen United FC. The game saw two evenly-matched teams push each other until a late, contentious goal ultimately decided the result. The contest began in typical early-season fashion, with both sides finding their feet in a cagey opening period.
The first chance came in the fifth minute when Rushen's Jamie Cadwallader was brought down 20 yards out, giving Aaron Hawley the opportunity to test Ayre keeper Nathan Teare. But he was equal to the challenge, diving low to his right to keep the scores level. FC Isle of Man hit back to beat Litherland REMYCA Ayre and Rushen to face off in Manx football's Charity Shield Fixtures for opening day of new Manx football season released BREAKING: Marown replace Douglas Royal in Canada Life Premier League The Tangerines broke the deadlock when, in the 12th minute, Chris Duggan delivered a pinpoint corner to Shaun Kelly at the back post who rose above his marker and powered a header into net to give Ayre an early lead.
The goal sparked the game into life, with both sides showing more intent going forward. Phil Dunnigan nearly doubled their advantage shortly after with a cross that looped off a defender, forcing a fine save from Rushen keeper Tony Harris. The Spaniards responded well and began to find their rhythm.
Their equaliser came in the 32nd.