Mayo GAA gearing for two All-Ireland finals against Dubs in space of a week

MAYO GAA is gearing up for two All-Ireland SFC finals against Dublin in the space of seven days later this month.

The unique situation was set up after Mayo defeated holders Cork by 3-11 to 0-18 in yesterday's thrilling All-Ireland Ladies SFC semi-final at Cavan, Mayo's men having already book their place in the decider a week earlier.

The men's final takes place on Sunday, September 17, with the ladies' final on the following Sunday, September 24.

Adding to the intrigue is the fact that both matches are against Dublin.

Cora Staunton, who last played in the All-Ireland final in 2007, inspired the ladies team yesterday with a tally of 1-9.

But it was two second half goals by Aileen Gilroy and substituite Amy Dowling that really turned the match in Mayo's favour while goalkeeper Yvonne Byrne made a crucial penalty save in the closing stages.

Overall, it was a truly inspirational display by the ladies and gives the county immense confidence ahead of an historic week for sport in the county.

Scorers for Mayo v Cork: C. Staunton 1-09 (2f), A. Gilroy and A. Dowling 1-0 each, N. Kelly and C. Whyte 0-01 each.

Mayo: Y. Byrne; O. Conlon, S. Tierney, M. Carter; M. Corbett, R. Kearns, F. Doherty; A. Gilroy, F. McHale; D. Hughes, N. Kelly, C. Whyte; S. Rowe, C. Staunton, G. Kelly.
Sub: A. Dowling for Kearns (44).

*Check out our extensive coverage of the ladies match on our Facebook page.