PAUL ROUSE GOT his reign as interim Offaly boss off to the perfect start with an impressive 2-20 to 1-15 victory over Antrim in Bord na Mona O’Connor Park.

Offaly midfielder Michael Brazil Lorraine OÕSullivan / INPHO Lorraine OÕSullivan / INPHO / INPHO

With Brian Darby and Johnny Moloney returning to the Faithful team, goals from Bernard Allen and Jamie Evans sent the hosts on the way to an eight-point victory.

Nigel Dunne was sent-off during the second period but it had little impact on Offaly who powered home in the second-half.

Offaly head to the Round 2 of the qualifiers, where they’ll be joined by Cavan after they hammered Wicklow by 2-16 to 1-5.

Martin Reilly (penalty) and Ciaran Brady bagged the goals as Cavan coasted to the facile win.

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