In these tough times, the Easter rugby tradition has faded somewhat, however, there are encouraging signs in the Isle of Man this weekend with a variety of matches dotted literally all over the island.
Undoubtedly the centrepiece is the Vagabonds Easter Festival which is based at Ballafletcher.
The action all gets under way on Saturday afternoon with the ABC memorial Cup sponsored by RC Turner Intersport. A Vagabonds team will compete in a round robin tournament against visitors East Retford and Horncastle. After the rugby action, there is a wild west themed party starting at 6.30pm - fancy dress is optional.
On Sunday it’s the annual IoM Vagabonds Sevens Tournament, kindly sponsored by Sure.
The competition is scheduled to kick-off at 12.30pm.
This is full contact and everyone is welcome to enter a side whether it be other local rugby teams, or just a work or social side. The tournament is free to enter and there will be various prizes awarded, including a cash prize for the overall winners.
Sides are requested to register their entries as early as possible via: 07624 321929 or belljan@manx.net there is live music and karaoke afterwards.
Elsewhere on Saturday Douglas entertain Whitehaven at Port-e-Chee kicking off at 2pm.
Easter Fixtures
Saturday, April 7
Cheshire Plate Final
Prenton v Southern Nomads
@ New Brighton kick-off 1.30pm
ABC Memorial Cup
Vagabonds v East Retford v Horncastle
@ Ballafletcher kick-off 2.30pm
Friendlies
Ramsey B P-P Western Vikings
@ Mooragh Park kick off 2pm
Douglas v Whitehaven
@ Port-e-Chee kick off 2pm
Sunday, April 8
Vagabonds Easter Sevens
@ Ballafletcher first game at 12.30pm