St George’s moved ever closer to a third Manx Division One title in four seasons by holding reigning champions Laxey to a 1-1 draw on Saturday.

Callum Morrissey fired the Geordies into a first half lead before Nigel Beattie earned the Miners a draw with a 73rd minute equaliser.

However, after this impressive point, St George’s are even clearer favourites to regain Manx football’s top prize.

St Mary’s’ outside hopes ended as their weakened side went down 4-3 at home to Rushen United in a seven goal thriller at the Bowl.

Steven Priestnal, Marc Priestnal and the returning Paul Wright, from the penalty spot, were on target for the Saints, who led 1-0 at the break.

But Rushen, who had goalkeeper Aron Storrie sent-off for conceding the penalty, scored FOUR times after the break led by a double from Island international Paul Jones, Neil Curphey and Ted Pepper.

Railway Cup winners Peel emerged 3-2 winners in an exciting battle against Douglas Royal at Nole’s Park.

Royal, who held Peel earlier in the season, fought hard but goals from Rob Cottier, Neil Birchenough and Juan Killip sealed the points for the westerners.

At the other end of the table, it looks like Braddan’s stay in the top flight will be brief.

They went down 3-1 at home to Union Mills.

Chris Jones scored directly from a corner to put the home side in front but the Merry Millers ran out winners, thanks to goals from Michael Nash, Steven Quine and Sam Cain.

St John’s shared four goals with Ayre United at Mullen-e-Cloie – Nick Leung and Sean Rooney the St John’s scorers.

Ramsey virtually ended any lingering relegation fears with a 2-1 home win over Gymns, courtesy of Steve Cleator and Ian Scott goals.

Regular marksman Ciaran McNulty was the Gymns scorer.