Déise still in the hunt after surviving Offaly test

AN opportunist 56th minute goal executed by Ballygunner debutant Brian O’Sullivan ensured Waterford fended off the challenge of Offaly at blustery O’Connor Park, Tullamore yesterday.

The Déise led 1-14 to 0-10 at the interval, but, aided by the elements, Offaly rallied and kept pushing the visitors. Five points separated the sides, 1-18 to 1-13, when O’Sullivan dived and his outstretched hurley sent the deftest of flicks to the net.

As Offaly piled on pressure, Waterford were outscored by 0-1 to 0-6 over the remaining 14 minutes but clung on for a victory that keeps them in the frame for a league final.