STILL without a manager, Tipperary lacked leadership on the field as well as off it at Ardfinnan yesterday. Perhaps Seamus McCarthy's successor is seen as the inheritor of a poisoned chalice, but whatever, Offaly was in no mood for compromise on the opening day of business.

Tommy Lyons's side has been infused by the presence of young players such as David Connolly, who tallied one goal and six points by the close of play, and the progressive Ciaran McManus. The 1995 provincial under 21 squad just might provide Offaly with that little something extra that would make them competitive at the highest level. The clinching goals that thwarted Tipperary arrived courtesy of Messrs Connolly and McManus in a 13 minute spell after the restart. It broke a 1-2 to 0-5 half time deadlock and consigned the gifted Peter Lambert, who kicked one goal and three points, to the sort of mauling not in line with his contribution.

The natives are restless in Sligo. The summer exploits of an unlucky under 21 team and a minor side reputedly laced with potential, has led to a resurgence of interest in gaelic football within the county. Consequently, visitors limerick were shown the door at Markievicz Park in ruthless fashion. New manager Mickey Moran is building for a new future and he was not disappointed yesterday. Tim my Cummins and Derek Ryan caused Sligo a lot of problems in the early minutes and, with the aid of a strong wind they deserved to lead at the break.

The fact that this lead was a miserly point (0-4 to 0-3), went a long way towards undermining their second half attitude. A string of points were followed by a goal from teenager Gerry McGowan and Limerick were all at sea.

The advantage of the All Ireland B championship was seen to good effect at Ruislip where inform Fermanagh dredged up a display built around effective teamwork and a sharpness in fitness. Sean McGrellis and Eamonn Blaney had pointed for London in the opening six minutes when Fermanagh seemed a might unsure of themselves.

Thereafter, however, Raymond Curran, Barry King and Tommy Callaghan began to find their feet in defence, while midfielders Paul Brewster and Colm Courtney asserted a crucial influence and when Ray Gallagher steered home a 25th minute goal, London had only a rear view of Fermanagh.