Rushen United are closing in on Manx football’s top prize for the first time in 22 years.

A 3-1 win at arch rivals Peel extended the southerners lead at the top of the Sure Mobile Premier League.

That completed a league double in the ‘old firm’ clash and, with nearest rivals St Mary’s and Laxey drawing 1-1, it was a perfect day for Rushen all round.

A Jack Saxon double and a Josh Kelly goal meant Chris Cain’s late goal for Peel was a mere consolation.

The result neither side wanted at the Bowl materialised.

Max Murley equalised late on for Laxey after Stephen Glover had given St Mary’s a first half lead.

Michael came from behind to earn an important point at Gymns.

Goals from player-manager Nick Hurt and Andrew Berry secured a 2-2 draw.

Barry Harding (two) was on target for Gymns.

Corinthians struck deep in injury time as they also shared four goals against bogey side Old Boys.

Last year’s FA Cup winners had led through Craig Stewart and Robbie Ward goals.

But Max Kneale and then Greg Taylor Taylor ensured a home point for Corinthians.

It was southern sides which triumphed in the two games in CFS Division Two.

Goals from Craig Howard (two) and Steve Tidy ensured Malew defeated Ronaldsway 3-1 in the southern derby, while doubles from Mark Barron and Sam Renshaw fired Colby to a 4-2 win over Pulrose, whose goals were scored through Stuart Dewhurst and Barry English.