Westmeath won by 2 points. Offaly reverted to a possession game today, particularly in the first half,when they faced a stiff breeze. Joey O'Connor scored a goal putting Offaly ahead, for a while, this was Offaly's only score from play in the half.Two pointed frees by Nigel Dunne completed the scoring. Westmeath replied with a goal and four points, to lead 1-7 to1-2 at half time.
Westmeath scored a point early in the second half. Offaly scored a point from play after 12 minutes, and added four more points, while missing as many chances. Westmeath added one more point, and finished ahead by 2 points.
Why Offaly played a slow possession game in the second half baffled supporters, who thought a more expansive game plan had arrived. Offaly players got into scoring positions, but overuse of the hand pass meant the chance passed.
Cian Johnson played well when he came on at half time. Anton Sullivan was replaced at half time, but returned In the second half. Other subs from memory were Bobby O'Dea, Shane Tierney, and Michael Brazil. Conor McNamee, Sean Doyle, and Bernard Allen were replaced. James Lalor started at 7 for Declan Hogan.
A big improvement will be needed for the upcoming league campaign.