The first weekend of league fixtures in 2007 could well have determined the next Manx champions.

That’s after St George’s defeated St Mary’s 4-3 at Glencrutchery Road on Saturday to stay out in front in OSA Division One and inflict a major blow on the Saints’ title hopes.

Goals from Chris Bass junior, Callum Morrissey and Chris Feeney, plus an own goal, secured the Geordies a crucial win in their bid for a third championship in four years.

St Mary’s, who led 2-1 at the break, scored twice through Peter Langridge and there was another own goal.

Reigning champions Laxey are still second but were made to battle by bottom club Marown before emerging with the points after a 2-0 success, thanks to an own goal and a Sam Theobold goal.

Peel are in third but again were pushed all the way before a second half goal from player-manager Chris Hawke saw off St John’s in a hard fought western derby.

Rushen were 3-1 home winners over Ramsey at Croit Lowey, courtesy of a Neil Curphey double and a Jack Saxon goal.

Ramsey’s reply was an own goal.

Braddan remain deep in trouble after a 2-1 defeat at Ayre United.

Johnny Cowley was on target from the penalty spot for Ayre, while there was an own goal for both sides – one of five in the top flight on a day when the football was affected by the strong winds.