Laois 2-21 Athlone IT 0-13:Despite their impressive margin of victory yesterday, Laois missed out on a place in the semi-final stages of the O'Byrne Cup due to Offaly's win over Westmeath.

After a quite even first quarter, Laois were in front by 0-6 to 0-4, but suddenly they raced into a commanding position thanks to a well-worked goal by midfielder Mark Timmons.

In the closing minutes Laois added a string of points to lead 1-12 to 0-5 at the interval.

Within five minutes of the resumption the game as a contest was over after Gary Walsh slammed home his side’s second goal.