Both first-placed Ireland Rangers and second-placed Devonshire Colts emerged victorious over their opponents yesterday to remain strong challengers for the First Division title along with promotion to the Premier Division.While Colts coasted to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Social Club, top-of-the-table Ireland Rangers were stretched to the limit before escaping with a slim one-goal victory over third-placed Southampton Rangers, winning 2-1 at Southampton Oval — a loss which prevented Southampton from making any significant move in the tables.

S.Rangers 1 I. Rangers 2

The Oval clash saw Henry Santucci put the visitors ahead 1-0 after 58 minutes before Jahni Bean levelled things for the host team from the penalty spot.

However with just eight minutes remaining, Lamuel Weeks came up with the winner, ending a spirited fight back by the home side.

Soc’ Club 0 Dev. Colts 4

At Bernard Park, Ryan Nesbitt was the ace for Colts as he scored twice to help brush off Social Club.

Colts, who remain five points behind leaders Ireland Rangers, also got a goal from Clevon Hill while the other tally came from an own-goal that finished off Social Club.

St. George’s 1 X’Roads 1

Middle of the table sides St. George’s and X’Roads could only manage a point apiece after their battle at Wellington Oval — the East Enders going ahead through Allan Douglas jr only to see Devon Rodgers scoring the equaliser for X’Roads>

S. Eagles 2 Wolves 0

At White Hill, Eagles continued to inch their way from the bottom of the table with this two-goal win over visiting Wolves — the goals coming from Darren Dowling and Anthony Webb.

Prospect 1 Ham’ Parish 1

Another clash featuring teams in the lower half saw Prospect and Parish battle to a draw at Police Field after Sean Dill put Parish ahead early from the penalty spot. But Prospect drew level mid-way through the second half when Jerry Laws netted.