Deadly Dooley delivers

ICE cool Shane Dooley nailed two mammoth injury-time frees as Offaly claimed victory in a tension filled battle for top flight survival at O’Connor Park, Tullamore yesterday.

After 48 minutes Offaly enjoyed a 2-13 to 1-13 cushion. However, Wexford, hurling into the teeth of a strong breeze, courageously fought back and were level by the 69th minute – it was the 8th occasion the counties were deadlocked — courtesy of points from Jim Berry (free), Harry Kehoe and PJ Nolan.

The initiative rested firmly with Colm Bonnar’s charges, even more so as Offaly were down to 14 men in the 61st minute after the harsh dismissal of influential sub Colin Egan.