Defending champions Port St. Mary upped the ante in the second round of the Isle of Man Rifle Association’s Winter League, winning all three divisional matches at Laxey Rifle Range, including a 486–479 victory in Division 1.

Captain Ben Kelly led from the front again, topping the score sheet with an excellent 99. Tom Pirson followed closely on 98. Gemma Kermode was the home side’s top gun with 98, while veteran John Wood scored 97 for the second week running.

The derby between Douglas and Sandsiders at the Sinclair Range in St. Johns went convincingly in favour of the ‘home’ side, 481–455. Sam Jones and Christian Eaton each recorded 97 to help Douglas post a strong total. Douglas were also boosted by Matt Roosen’s return to the ranks. Jean Quaye, last season’s individual runner-up, began her campaign with a solid 98 for Sandsiders after missing the first round.

Meanwhile, Sulby bounced back from their narrow opening-round defeat to beat Kirk Michael comfortably, 476–427, despite still having several shooters on the injured list. A trio of 96s once again topped the hosts’ score sheet, this time courtesy of Mark Cain, Peter Webb and Peter Faragher. Suzanne McKnight and Perryn Watson both chalked up 95 for the visitors.

Next week, Port St. Mary welcome Castletown for the first southern derby of the season. Douglas travel to Kirk Michael, while Sandsiders take on Laxey at the Sinclair Range.