Offaly 2-16
Laois 2-15

In a thrilling quarter-final at O'Moore Park last night before 1,300 spectators Offaly emerged victors. They raced into a lead of 1-4 to 0-1. Laois improved with points by Stephen Maher and a goal by Ben Conroy but having played against the breeze Offaly led 1-9 to 1-6, their goal coming from Aiden Hynes after nine minutes.

Seán Quirke was deadly accurate from frees and in the second half he added four more but his goal 10 minutes from time regained the lead after Laois had rallied with a goal and four points without reply, PJ Scully with the goal after 48 minutes. A draw was on the cards when Laois shot two late points only for Quirke to edge his side in front in injury time. Laois had a chance to force extra time but Maher missed a 60-metre free and Offaly progress to play Kilkenny.