Howitt fires blues back to the top

A single-goal victory at Mount Hale, Blair Howitt separating the sides, coupled with Saints’ unexpected late postponement on compassionate grounds, saw the two sides exchange positions.

The Port Soif side now hold a single point advantage in the table, while Saints, who now play Manzur at Blanche Pierre Lane tomorrow evening, still enjoy two games in hand.

Kevin Gillease, the Rovers coach, said they completely dominated in Alderney but, yet again, left their shooting boots at home.

‘The same old story,’ he said as Rovers failed to capitalise on their domination.

‘We played well and were solid, didn’t give them a sniff,’ added Gillease.

He maintains hope that Manzur and Sylvans will do Rovers a favour by taking points off Saints in the coming week.

‘Bels will also be tough for them – and us.’

On the GFLM’s recommendation all senior games at the weekend were accompanied by a minute’s silence to mark the death of popular former Muratti star Scott Bradford.

At St Peter’s, Sylvans ended their three-match losing streak with a 2-0 win over Vale Rec, Kyle Smith returning to the side after injury and netting both their goals on a day when Jacob Fallaize will be kicking himself for passing up several good opportunities to make it easier for the home team.

Both Sylvans and Belgraves, 6-1 winners over Rangers, climb back above Manzur in the chase for third.

• Reports in Monday's Guernsey Press.