South Manchester Sports 1st climbed back to the top of the table as they continued their quest to retain the Manchester Accountants Premier League title.

South, who are two points clear at the summit with eight games remaining, overcame Bowler 3-1 to maintain their advantage over nearest rivals Miam Miam.

Ben Peppi’s deflected effort and two goals from Adam Lavin gave South all three points as they warmed up for Sunday’s clash with Trinity in style.

Meanwhile, Leeds Maccabi 1st suffered a setback in the race for the Sunday Alliance title after going down 4-3 against defending champions and league leaders New Unicorn.

Ian Selwyn’s men are now six points adrift in second, despite winning seven of their nine league games so far this season.

After falling behind early on, Richard Black drew Maccabi level from the penalty spot following a handball.

The second half was a frenetic affair with New Unicorn retaking the lead soon after the break only for Dave Woolman to equalise with a stunning free-kick from 20-yards.

But once again, Maccabi were unable to make the most of the momentum with New Unicorn scoring twice in quick succession to kill the game off.

Black pulled a goal back late on from the penalty spot to ensure a nervy last five minutes, but the home side held on to take the points.

In the MJSL, Johnny Goldstone and Yossi Saunders were both on target as Leeds Maccabi 2nd recorded a 2-0 win against South Manchester Sports 2nd.