A DEFENSIVE mishap shortly before half time played a key part in Wicklow's 1-7 to 0-8 win over Offaly at Baltinglass yesterday, as the home side maintained its march towards promotion.

Wicklow were only leading by 0-4 to 0-2 when Seamus Cullen took a free 40 yards out and as three Offaly defenders contested the ball, it appeared as if full back John Ryan deflected the shot into his own net. There was little to choose between the teams in a highly competitive match, but that goal gave

Wicklow the edge going into a rain drenched second half.

A very comfortable 1-14 to 0-6 win over Waterford at Cappoquin edged Longford into second place in the table and on course for the second promotion spot. Longford did all the hard work in the first half six points between the eighth and 16th minutes helping them to a 0-11 to 0-6 lead at half time.

Limerick's promotion hopes were dented when they lost out to in form Tipperary on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-9 at New Inn. It was sweet revenge for Tipperary who lost out to their neighbours in the McGrath Cup in January.

At the other end of the table, Carlow were good value for their 2-14 to 2-10 win over Kilkenny at Ballyragget. Carlow only led by 1-8 to 1-5 at half time, but any hopes Kilkenny had of recording their firsts win were dealt a blow with the dismissal of Damien Walsh.