Carlow corner forward Brendan Lawler scored 12 of his side's points, with eight from frees and three 65s. Wicklow led by 1-4 to 0-6 at half time, the Garden County's goal coming from John Moran.

But with wind advantage in the second half, and inspired by centre back Shane Kavanagh, Carlow took command. Two late goals from Carlow substitute Seamus Murphy killed off Wicklow's hopes with the visitors' second goal coming with the final puck of the game from John Keogh.

Wickow were reduced to 14 men into the second half when goal keeper Ted Kennedy received a straight red card for a illegal stroke.