Decies destroyed but get unexpected lifeline

Offaly 3-14 Waterford 0-15

Yet within seconds of the final whistle came the confirmation that they were through to a quarter-final showdown with Limerick next Sunday, Cork’s defeat by Clare throwing them an unexpected lifeline. However, their inept display scarcely merited such a reward, and raised many question marks over their championship credentials.

Throughout the field, Offaly outplayed and outfought aimless Waterford and an eight point winning margin scarcely reflected the winners’ dominance over the 70 minutes.