A goal by Lydon Micallef on the 36th minute gave Naxxar Lions sole leadership in the BOV First Division as they beat Lija Athletic 1-0 in a clash between two of the main challengers for promotion.

Naxxar now lead the way on 22 points, followed by Marsaxlokk on 21 and Lija 20.

In the second match, St. Andrews and Gudja United shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw.

Meanwhile Gudja are fourth on 19 points, followed by Vittoriosa on 18, Pietà and St. Andrews 17, Zejtun 16, Gzira 12, Dingli 8, Birzebbuga 7 and Mqabba 3.