March 27, 2017 at 11:07 am

PHOTOS: Disappointment As Kerry Suffer Defeat To Offaly

Colum Harty of Kerry about to score a point. Photo by Dermot Crean

KERRY will face the prospect of a relegation play-off next weekend after a defeat to Offaly by 1-21 to 2-16, at home in the Allianz Hurling League Division 1B clash at Austin Stack Park on Sunday.

Although Kerry, Laois and Offaly all finished on two points, the Faithful county’s better points difference ensures they survive and go into a quarter final with Tipperary.

Played in glorious sunshine, but with a stiff breeze blowing into the Mitchels end, the Leinster side didn’t make the most of the wind advantage in the opening exchanges.

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In fact, midway through the half a Padraig Boyle put Kerry three ahead. However, the midlanders reacted with three points from distance to level the game.

Jordan Conway restored the Kerry lead but Offaly responded with the next four points. Kerry stayed in touch though and Offaly led 1-9 to 0-15 a the break, with Kerry having a stiff breeze to their backs in the second half.

Jordan Conway in possession with Dermot Shortt about to challenge. Photo by Dermot Crean

However, a second bookable offence saw John Buckley red-carded just before the break for the home side which was a big blow.

Kerry were determined in the second period and reached parity by the 44th minute when Padraig Boyle pointed to make it 1-13 to 0-16.

However, Offaly sub Stephen Quirke goaled soon after and the home side were in trouble.

Stephen Quirke (right) turns to celebrate his goal for Offaly. Photo by Dermot Crean

Kerry never gave up and stayed in touch. With less than 10 to go they were just two behind (1-15 to 1-17) but Offaly then seemed to take full advantage of the extra man and went five ahead with four minutes to go.

A late scrambled goal for Kerry was only a consolation so it’s a trip away to Portlaoise next week to stay in the Division. Scroll down for photos…