Rhode (Offaly) had to pull out all the stops to get the better (1-11 to 1-7) of Old Leighlin (Carlow) in what was a pulsating Leinster club SFC clash at Dr. Cullen Park.

It wasn't until the final minutes that the destination of the spoils became clear when the hot favourites managed to shake off the attentions of the stubborn Carlow side.

Rhode talisman Niall McNamee was in top form with his 1-6 personal tally the stand-out achievement on the day.

It was a well-struck penalty by McNamee in the 25th minute which served to propel his side into a 1-3 to 0-2 lead.

Old Leighlin added another point after that to leave them trailing by McNamee's goal at the interval.

The second half started in dramatic fashion as Patrick Hickey's long free into the Rhode goalmouth caused all sorts of problems for the winners' defence.

Seamus Kinsella rose to flick Hickey's punt to the inrushing Hughie Gahan who volleyed home from close range.

Rhode regained the lead when McNamee pointed from play and then Anton Sullivan doubled the visitors' lead moments later.

Rhode were never to relinquish their lead thereafter and they were particularly out of luck when Pat Hickey saw his shot deflected over the bar by Eddie McDonald. Tweet

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