Rushen United checked Peel’s title progress in the Canada Life Premier League on Saturday.
An 88th minute equaliser from Lee Gale rescued a point for the westerners who remain unbeaten in the league.
But the ‘auld enemy’ Rushen will be encouraged by a point against the title chasers, thanks to skipper Aaron Hawley’s first half opener.
Reigning champions St George’s are four points clear of Peel, who have a game in hand – the sides are due to meet on January 3.
Old Boys warmed up for next weekend’s Railway Cup final with a hard-fought success against Corinthians – Robbie Ward with the only goal of the game.
St Mary’s are still fourth but it needed a late show to see off lowly Gymns 5-2 at the Bowl.
Two quick-fire goals from acting player-manager Steven Priestnal put the home side in the ascendancy before Connor Dempsey pulled one back just before the break.
When Nick Bowden equalised 15 minutes from time, Gymns sensed an unlikely point.
But two more quick goals from Connor Birch restored the Saints’ advantage before Mark Wolfenden rounded off the scoring in the final minute.
Goals from Callum Taggart (two) and Richard Winn fired St John’s up to sixth with a 3-0 home win against Ayre United.
Union Mills remain at the bottom but they can take heart from their showing in a narrow 4-3 home defeat to Laxey.
Aaron Beattie put Mills in front midway through the first half but three quick goals – from Sam Treanor and Lee Cowley (two) - towards the end of the first half put the Miners in control.
AJ Suckling pulled one back for the hosts and they were elated when talented youngster Jordan Crawley came off the bench to equalise.
However, Steve Moran’s side had the final word with Matthew Rennie grabbing the winner.