Matt Keane reports
The basement battle in Tom Drohan Park on Sunday saw Carrick United leapfrog Southend in the table.
Prior to kick-off, Carrick were bottom with five points from their ten games. Southend were second bottom with seven points from the same number of games played.
The biggest attendance of the season turned up to watch the match and they went home happy as the home club won 3-1.
Shane O'Sullivan gave Southend the lead early on but that was as good as it got for the visitors. Eoghan Burke equalised ten minutes into the second half, and eight minutes later Mark O'Meara put Brian Barry's charges in front.
With time running out, David Whelan sealed the game for Carrick from the penalty spot. They are now one point ahead of Southend and they have five of their remaining games at home.
Final score: Carrick United 3 Southend United 1.
The scheduled game between Waterford Crystal and second placed Hibernians was called off as the pitch was deemed unplayable.
On Saturday night, Tramore drew with Ballinroad. Charlie Binnions netted for the Seagulls and Aidan McKenna scored the equaliser for the Rams. Final score: Tramore 1 Ballinroad 1.
Friday night's clash between Villa and Dungarvan United saw the league leaders run out comfortable 4-0 winners - Dean Walsh grabbed a brace, while Eoghan Rea and Dylan Butler were also on target for Conor Coad's side.
Portlaw United are odds on to be playing in the Premier League next season. They remain two points clear of Piltown and they have two games in hand.
On Sunday at The Paddock, they defeated St Joseph's 5-0. Darren Rockett, David McGrath (2) and John Dee (2) were the goalscorers for the Paddock Boys. Final score: Portlaw United 5 St Joseph's 0.
