Hurlers to face Déise in Cusack Park double header

Westmeath's senior hurlers face a battle royale against Waterford in phase two of the All-Ireland SHC Qualifiers next Saturday, as part of a tantalising double header in Cusack Park.

Brian Hanley's charges disposed of a plucky but wasteful London side 1-14 to 0-11 after a gruelling day trip to Ruislip, while in their phase one game, Waterford saw off Offaly.

Westmeath's clash with the Déise will be the second match on the programme at Cusack Park next Saturday (5pm), following the senior footballers' hosting of Fermanagh in their SFC Qualifier opener (3pm).

In Ruislip yesterday, the Lake County overcame a nervy first half to defeat the Exiles, with a 51st minute goal from Clonkill's Brendan Murtagh putting daylight between the sides (1-9 to 0-9).

Derek McNicholas once again proved his worth to the Maroons, knocking over ten points in a fruitful day's work, and some fine late scores from the Lough Lene Gaels man carried Westmeath to a six point victory.

But had London enjoyed better fortune in front of the posts, there could have been a much bleaker end to proceedings for Westmeath, who shelled out some €12,500 for the day trip to the English capital.

They will be pleased with the result, but a tougher assignment awaits them next weekend when Michael 'Brick' Walsh and his colleagues come to town.

Meanwhile, the county's senior footballers made solid preparations for the visit of Fermanagh, with a 4-12 to 2-7 challenge win over Tipperary at Cusack Park yesterday evening.

Keep an eye out for Tuesday's Westmeath Examiner for Gerry Buckley's report and thoughts from Ruislip, plus a look ahead to next weekend's double header.