Reigning champions St George’s overcame the spirited challenge of Old Boys, the surprise package of the season so far, with victory in Saturday’s top of the table clash to move five points clear at the summit of the Sure Mobile Premier League.

A hat-trick from Island international Callum Morrissey, one a penalty, and a goal from strike partner Martin Torr fired the Geordies to a 4-2 victory over the newly promoted side, who went into the match in second place, just two points off the pace.

Callum and Craig Stewart were on target for the visitors.

Third placed Peel maintained their impressive form but they had to battle hard before seeing off Ayre United 3-0 at Douglas Road.

After a goalless first half, Juan Killip, substitute Scott Mylchreest and Nigel Shimmin sealed victory for the westerners who move to within a point of Old Boys.

Union Mills’ bid for Railway Cup qualification received a boost with a 3-1 win at strugglers St John’s.

Steven Quine, Carl Dobbin and Sam Cain were the scorers for the Millers, who are fifth, with regular marksman Wayne Lisy finding the net for St John’s.

Fourth placed Laxey are also in the hunt and gained three important points with a 2-1 home success against Corinthians.

The Miners’ men on target were John Callow and Lee Cowley but Corinthians showed why their recent resurgence need not be brief with a Jamie Stoy penalty keeping the outcome in the balance.

Rushen overcame a half-time deficit to also keep alive their qualification hopes with a 3-2 home win over Gymns – Aaron Hawley, Paul Jones and Neil Curphey the scorers.

St Mary’s moved further away from the drop zone, up to eighth place, with a 2-1 win at home to Ramsey, who remain in the relegation zone.

Goals from Lee Dixon and Marc Priestnal secured victory for the Saints at the Bowl with Robbie Campbell the Ramsey scorer.