GAME OVER and business done but Waterford had to work hard for their seven point victory in Portlaoise, their third victory in row in this qualifier series.

A 29th minute goal from Damien Culleton edged Laois to within a point and on the half hour they were level.

Goalkeeper Damien Culleton had also kept Waterford at bay with four superb saves. Unfortunately for the home side, he was substituted just before the break when a shot from Eoin McGrath connected with his head.

Waterford were raining long ball down their right wing and received some reward when John Mullane blasted for a goal to put themfive points up.

Michael Walsh was busy at full-forward and his goal with ten minutes left sealed the win.

Waterford won't be pleased with the display, though.

Their passing was off and at times they struggled at midfield.

Topping the table. It means they play either Tipperary or Wexford instead of Cork or Kilkenny. Despite the loss, Laois, thanks to their earlier win against Westmeath, avoid any talk of relegation playoffs.

DERRY Laois: P Mullaney, B Campion, P Cuddy, J Walsh, C Healy, P Mahon, M McEvoy, J Phelan (0-2), J Fitzpatrick (0-2), T Fitzgerald, J Young (0-7, 5 frees), S Dollard (0-2), D Culleton (1-0), M Rooney, D Carter Subs T Doran for P Mullaney (33), G Delahunty for D Carter (35), S Dwyer for S Dollard (50) WATERFORD C Hennessy, J Murray, K Moran, E Murphy, T Browne, D Prendergast, B Phelan, K McGrath (0-1, 65), D Bennett (0-6, 4 frees), D Shanahan, E Kelly, S O'Sullivan, J Mullane (1-3), M Walsh (1-5), E McGrath (0-1) Subs: A Kearney for E Murphy (19), S Prendergast (0-1) for S O'Sullivan (33), J Kennedy for E Kelly (45), S Molumphy for J Murray (52)