Dublin Advance To O'Byrne Cup Semi-Finals
WEXFORD 1-9
DUBLIN 1-12
Stephen Doyle at St Patrick's Park, Enniscorthy
Paul Clarke's reign as Dublin manager will continue for another week, at least, as another impressive performance from Thomas Davis forward Paul Hudson inspired the team to victory.
Dublin’s destiny in the competition was out of their hands as UCD were guaranteed top spot in the group, and progression, if they emerged as victors from the clash of the students.
Following the defeat to UCD on Wednesday night, Clarke made five changes; Tom Shields of Castleknock replaced Jack Smith at corner back while St Sylvesters’ Ross Hazley started in midfield in place of Jason Whelan.
In the forwards, Shane Boland, Gavin Ivory and Conor McHugh came in for Matias McDonncha, Michael Deegan and Shane Cunningham.
The first-half was lacking entertainment until the 29th minute when Dublin were leading by 7 points to 4 thanks to three frees from Hudson, a points brace from Niall Walsh and a score each kicked by Ross Hazley and Gary Sweeney.
Wexford then scored a freak goal to level the match.
Centre back Joe Wadding kicked a hopeful long range ball into the square in the 29th minute, it took a funny bounce two yards from goal, which deceived Dubs keeper Evan Comerford before flying into the top corner.
But the visitors charged forward after the goal and immediately worked the ball up the field where Conor McHugh put the finishing touch to a swift attack with a neat finish under the keeper.
The half finished with only 28 men on the pitch after the ref fired out two injury time red cards in as quick succession as the goals.
Dublin forward Gary Sweeney wore a bemused look when he was dismissed for an off the ball incident which the Dublin management team were told was for striking.
Moments later Wexford’s John Turbit walked after kicking out at Dubs defender Ciaran Reddin who was attempting to take a free out.
It was a battle of the free takers in the second half as Ben Brosnan gave Wexford hope with four scores from placed balls.
Hudson hit three, all the more impressive taking into account the swirling winds, while he also hit two from play which sealed the win.
That result plus a surprise 0-18 to 1-9 win for DCU against UCD at Belfield set-up a semi-final match with Kildare next week.