There was no surprise at Breffni Park yesterday when Cavan gained an expected victory over Waterford by a 10-point margin. The outcome was decided as early as half-time when Cavan led by 2-6 to 0-4. After early uncertainty, Cavan gradually took control. The only time Waterford showed any creativity was in the opening quarter when they enjoyed a period of supremacy and actually took a two-point lead after six minutes.

However, once Cavan got into their stride the scores came thick and fast. Two goals from Larry Reilly in the 11th and 26th minutes left Waterford heading for defeat. Although they managed to reduce the deficit to six points midway through the second half, that was as close as they came. A third goal from Cavan's full forward Cathal Collins emphasised their supremacy.

Cavan: D McCarthy; P Kermath, C Brady, G Sheridan; A Forde (0-1), B Morris, R Galligan; J Coffey (0-1), P McKenna; R Carolan (0-3), D McCabe (0-2), R Rogers (0-3); L Reilly (2-0), C Collins (1- 1), M Graham. Subs: F O'Reilly (0-2) for R Carolan, J Reilly for L Reilly, DM Reilly for R Galligan.

Waterford: T Brennan; D Crotty, G Walsh, J Crotty; L Dalton (1-0), V Murray, J Fitzgerald; R Power (0-1), D Whelan; W Kavanagh, A Ahern (0-1), R Hennessy; P Fitzgerald (0-2), A Fitzgerald (0-4), S Cunningham (0-1). Subs: C Watt for W Kavanagh, C Breathnach for L Dalton.

Referee: J Smith (Meath).