Old Alex kept up their fine league run with 10 points from the last 12 available as they held off Muckross 3-2 in Milltown.
Niamh Sweeney and Russell sisters Emma and Abbie all scored in the first 21 minutes before Muckross got two back in the second half.
Loreto moved into the top four with a composed 2-0 win over Belfast Harlequins, Sarah Torrans and Yasmin Pratt getting the crucial goals.
UCD moved into the last of the EY Champions Trophy playoff spots on goal difference ahead of seventh-placed Railway Union after theStudents defeated Cork Harlequins 4-1, coming back from a goal down.
In EYHL2, Monkstown and Ards are mathematically assured of a promotion playoff of some description.
For Ards in group one, Ellen Robinson and Abi O’Mahony traded first half goals but Zara Malseed and Ali Carson saw Ards home.
They remain five points ahead of Corinthian – 3-2 winners over Galway – in the chase for top spot in this group phase, a position which brings a bye.
Photo: Max Fulham
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