Wicklow secured a Christy Ring Cup semi-final spot after a late scoring burst in Arklow on Saturday.

Goals in the first and third quarters boosted Wicklow to a survival success over battling Down in the Allianz Hurling League Division 2A relegation play-off at Trim.

A flood of scores in the second half helped Westmeath to a flattering 18-point win over a limited Wicklow side in last Saturday’s Hurling League Division 2 tie at Mullingar.

Kerry put their troubles behind them yesterday when they travelled to Aughrim to pick up the first points of the league.

Wicklow 3-11 Kildare 2-11