Shimmin Wilson Manx Shield holders Southern Nomads crashed to an ignominious 24-5 defeat to last year’s runners up Vagabonds B.

A solitary Vagas try by Kieran Lever was the only difference between the two sides at half time but, in the second half, Vagas cut loose with tries from Jonny Morris, Steve Lapley and Fanie Scheurkogel, plus two conversions from Kieran Lever rounding off the scoring.

Nomads picked up a late consolation with a try from Cam Sayle but, in truth, that was flattering.

At Mooragh Park, Western Vikings just edged out Northern Spaniards 19-17 in a opening day thriller.

Richard Little, James Watson and Paul Middleton all touched down for Vikings with Mark Venables kicking two vital conversions.

For the Spaniards, skipper Pete Walkom weighed in with a try and a conversion and there were two tries for talented youngster Lee Camalieri.

In the final match of the day, Ramsey eased their way past Castletown 32-10 at Poulsom Park.

Sam Hanrahan crossed for Town and Dan O’Connor added a penalty and a conversion.

Tynan Pritchard celebrated his return to Ramsey with four tries and there were also tries for Sean Wylie and Simon Mason.