Dublin hurlers' plunge into division two of the Allianz NHL next season was confirmed in Birr, when the visitors suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of a lively Offaly side.

The result was never in doubt, for Offaly took total control from the throw-in.

Although playing into a stiff wind, they led at half time by 2-12 to 0-3, effectively killing the game as a contest.

Dublin were further hit within two minutes of the resumption when they were reduced to 14 players by the dismissal of corner back Darren Benham for a nasty foul on Simon Whelehan.

The best that may be said in Dublin's favour is that they kept trying to the end, although by midway through the second half, Offaly had taken off five of their starting 15.

As this was Offaly's last competitive game before tackling Kilkenny in the championship, they would probably have preferred a stiffer test.