Wexford 2-13Laois 0-11

Wexford ended their losing streak against Laois with a comfortable eight-point victory in this opening round O'Byrne Cup game played at O'Kennedy Park, New Ross, yesterday.

In the build up much emphasis was on the black card, but as it transpired Wicklow referee Anthony Nolan had only reason to brandish the card once in the 70 minutes, with Wexford attacker Ciarán Lyng getting censured in the 54th minute. At that stage the home side were in total control of the game.

Wexford’s opening goal arrived in the ninth minute when Kevin O’Grady was on hand to fire home from an acute angle. So it was Wexford who led 1-7 to 0-6 at the interval.

Donie Kingston inspired Laois attacks on the resumption, kicking over three pointed frees to leave the minimum separating the sides, 1-7 to 0-9. But Wexford saw off that challenge after 46 minutes when O’Grady, having been picked out by a quick ball inside, turned his marker before crashing home a super goal. That gave his side a 2-10 to 0-9 lead which left no way back for Laois.