Westmeath suffered defeat at home to Carlow on Saturday.
Westmeath Manager Kevin O'Brien says their battle with Laois in two weeks is a "winner take all" clash.
He watched as his side suffered defeat at home to Carlow in the Joe McDonagh on Saturday on a final scoreline of 4-20 to 1-23.
Goals from Conor Kehoe, James Doyle, Chris Nolan and Marty Kavanagh claimed the points for Carlow, as they now sit on four points after victory over Laois in round one.
Westmeath remain on two points after they saw off London in the previous round.
O'Brien says the winners in two weeks will be favourites to reach the Joe McDonagh final:
Kevin O'Brien spoke to Gerry Russell after the game:
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