Over 6,000 fans watched this challenge match between Cavan and Offaly at Breffni Park last night as both sides continued their big-match preparations with this full-blooded contest. Offaly led by 2-6 to 1-5 at half-time through goals from Roy Malone and John Kenny. Cavan's goal came from Peter Reilly.

The pace of the game slackened appreciably in the early stages of the second half at which stage Cavan battled back with points from Fintan Cahill, Reilly and Raymond Cunningham. However, a third Offaly goal from Colm Quinn ended Cavan's hopes of victory.

Scorers: Offaly - R Malone 1-1, J Kenny 1-0, C Quinn 1-0, D Reynolds 0-3, C McManus, V Claffey 0-2 each, F Cullen, M Daly, V Mooney 0-1 each. Cavan - P Reilly 1-3, R Cunningham, F Cahill, M Fagan 0-2 each, P Brady, J Reilly 0-1 each.