In Sam McCartan Westmeath had the outstanding player on show.

He scored 0-4, two from play from wing-back, as well two ’45’ in the final quarter when the game was in the mix.

Pat Havern scored seven points from frees while Liam Kerr also hit 0-3 from play for Down, who had a nice start with Miceal Rooney scoring after just 12 seconds, Liam Kerr following up with his first point three minutes later.

Both sides were guilty of poor shooting and misplaced passes in the opening quarter but they settled into it and the second quarter was a better spectacle.

David Lynch and Robbie Forde strode forward to hit lovely points from play to draw Westmeath level after 19 minutes.

Westmeath came into the game intent on stopping Down’s goal rush of 14 goals in seven games, and they were disciplined in defence.

At the other end, Ryan O’Toole missed the best goal chance of the first half dragging his shot wide of the near post.