GAELIC GAMES:THE ROAD opens up with a victory here as a Leinster final place is within both sides' grasp .

Granted, Westmeath await the winners while either Louth or Carlow will provide semi-final opposition, but it must be seen as a real chance to get to the provincial decider. Both Division Three outfits are hoping to catch fire, Offaly have retained 36-year-old Ciarán McManus in their half forward line while Wexford finally begin the post-Matty Forde era.

On that premise, coupled with home advantage, Offaly to win.

In the last episode:Wexford by four points in the league in February.

You bet:Offaly are 11/10, Wexford 10/11, draw 7/1

On your marks:The 5pm throw-in is especially for the Champions League final.

Gaining ground: Offaly could have switched this game to Croke Park to pair up with the hurlers.

Just the ticket:€20 stand, €10 terrace, students – €5 for stand, €3 terrace and under-14s free.

Crystal gazing: Wexford should be better equipped for Leinster, but Offaly will get the job done.

OFFALY: A Mulhall; B Darby, S Brady, S Pender; S Lonergan, R Brady, K Slattery; R Dalton, N Smith; C McManus, S Ryan, A Sullivan; B Allen, N Dunne, N McNamee.

WEXFORD: A Masterson; J Wadding, G Molloy, B Malone; A Flynn, D Murphy (capt), A Doyle; R Quinlivan, D Waters; S Roche, C Lyng, B Brosnan; C Morris, E Bradley, R Barry.

Referee: P O’Sullivan (Kerry).