Reigning champions Laxey emphasised on Saturday exactly why they won’t relinquish the Division One title without a fight.

Manx football’s dominant force inflicted a first defeat of the season on title contenders Peel with a 2-1 success.

And there was joy too for St Mary’s and Rushen with the Saints going top after they defeated Ayre United and Rushen shocking previous leaders St George’s at Glencrutchery Road.

Johnny Callow and Carl Barks were the match-winners at Glen Road as the Miners triumphed and leapfrogged Peel in the process.

Nick Hurt scored the westerners reply.

At the Bowl, a goal in each half from Frankie Jones and Steve Priestnal sent the Saints to the summit, with battling Ayre missed a penalty in the second half.

And Steve Riding and Neil Curphey were the goal heroes in Rushen’s memorable victory – Island international Callum Morrissey was on target again for the Geordies.

Douglas Royal continued their fine form with a 3-1 home win over newly promoted Braddan at Noble’s Park, courtesy of goals from Chris Anderson, Craig Taylor and the in-form Johnny Baker.

Braddan, who were level at 1-1 at the break, were reduced to 10 men in the second half.

Marown remain rock bottom and were thrashed 4-0 at home by Gymns with Mark Connor the hat-trick hero and Ciaran McNulty grabbing the other for the Tromode club.

Ramsey and Union Mills fought out a 1-1 draw at Ballacloan with Steve Cleator and Michael Shimmin the respective scorers as Mills came from behind at half-time.