Hurling: Strong Tipp hold Offaly at bay

Holders Tipperary were not flattered by a 10-pioint win over Offaly in the National Hurling League at Birr today.

Tipperay 2-21 Offaly 3-08

Holders Tipperary were not flattered by a 10-point win over Offaly in the National Hurling League at Birr today.

Tipperary destroyed Offaly in the opening half.

They had a goal from John O'Brien in the first minute and another from Liam Cahill in the 15th as they built up a 2-16 to 0-03 interval lead.

Brendan Murphy gave Offaly hope with a goal in the first minute of the second half.

However, despite Offaly pressure, Tipperay stayed comfortably clear.

Goals by Brian Whelahan and Gary Hanniffy in the last five minutes took the bad look off the scoreline for a disappointing Offaly.

Tipperary had top class displays from Liam Cahill, Paul Kelly and Brendan (Benny) Dunne, with John Carroll and John O'Brien also to the fore.

Offaly's best were Stephen Byrne, Niall Claffey, Brendan Murphy, Barry Whelahan and Brian Carroll.