Offaly remain unbeaten in Division 2A after a physical test in Tullamore saw them outscore Carlow by seven points today.
They will play Kildare next week, who sit top of the table because of scoring difference.
Division 2A has proved highly competitive so far and with ambitions of promotion, manager Johnny Kelly doesn't expect either team to hold back.
"I think both teams will probably go for it, because whoever wins gets a week break," he said. "Whoever loses ends up, you’re starting seven games in seven weeks which is a very heavy workload for any squad.
"I don’t know what Kildare’s feelings are on it, I suppose they’ll come and they’ll want to lay down a marker here and give their best. I think we will do no different."
Both teams have secured a semi-final spot while the winner of next week's match will be rewarded with a week off to prepare for the final on 1 April. Kildare overcame Kerry in a five-point victory today in Newbridge.
"We’re into, I think, a semi-final as of now. It comes down to next week, it’s one game at a time. That's all we can do, we can just win the game." Kelly said.
The Offaly manager had no intentions to play it safe, despite having already secured at least a home tie. "Everyone wants to try and put their best foot forward every day they go out."
The Faithful County will hope to have Óisín Kelly and Jack Clancy back for next Sunday after the pair picked up injuries today.
Kelly remains hopeful that the duo will recover in time. "Jack Clancy took a really heavy challenge to the head, having a look there but I think they're saying that he's OK. We’ll reassess that tomorrow and Tuesday night at training and see how we are fixed for next weekend."
