Damian’s defiance guides Wexford home

Wexford 2-12 Offaly 1-11

Brian Whelahan’s forced departure in the 45th minute marked another huge setback, but while both sides fought out a marvellous second half, ultimately it was Fitzhenry’s acrobatics in preventing two certain goals and making two other vital saves which proved decisive.

Thus, John Conran’s excellently-prepared side brought Wexford victory for only the second time in six finals against the midlanders since 1981, an achievement all the more satisfying for the reason that himself and co-selector Martin Quigley had been on the losing side in three of them.