7,000 spectators watched on as a last-gasp Thomas Deehan free handed Clara their first Offaly Senior Football Championship title since 2003, as they got the better of Rhode this afternoon at O'Connor Park in Tullamore.

It looked like reigning champions Rhode would run away with this game, as they led by 0-7 to 0-2 at half-time, but Clara produced a storming second half display.

Offaly senior ace Niall McNamee was Rhode's leading marksman in the opening half with six points, but he faded as the game progressed.

Rhode led by 0-9 to 0-6 with 12 minutes remaining, but a goal flourish ensued for the remainder of the contest.

Consistent pressure on the Rhode defence by the Clara attack was eventually rewarded when Ross Brady equalised with well-finished goal.

However, Rhode quickly netted a three-pointer of their own with Roy Malone on target.

Clara failed to give up with Brady bagging a second goal and although veteran Malone tried hard for Rhode in the closing stages, Clara held out for Deehan to kick over the match-winning point.