Moran's Mayo get back on track in the league

Mayo got back to winning ways in the Allianz National Football League as they defeated Monaghan by 2-30 to 2-11 at St. Tiernach’s Park, Clones, writes Patrick Hennelly.

There were plenty of positives from the Mayo performance, but the story of the day was Kobe McDonald’s national league debut. The Crossmolina teenager was introduced in the 51st minute and chipped in with an incredible 1-4 (one two-pointer). It was a real Roy of the Rovers-type debut for McDonald, and it will be intriguing to see his role in the team as the season progresses.

Monaghan began the first half at a lightning pace and points from Michael Bannigan and Andrew Woods (free) shunted them into an early lead.

However, aided by the influential Bob Tuohy at midfield, Mayo began to win some vital possession, and points flowed from Darragh Beirne (two-point free), Jack Carney (two-pointer), Fergal Boland, and Ryan O’Donoghue.

O’Donoghue had a chance of a goal after 12 minutes but his penalty kick flew inches over the crossbar.

Andy Moran’s troops continued to dominate possession and a brace of brilliant two-pointers from Fergal Boland just before the break helped muster a 0-17 to 0-6 interval lead for the visitors.

Monaghan made a fruitful start to the second half and a goal from half-time substitute Jack McCarron was warmly greeted by the home supporters. When the same player followed up with a point on 44 minutes. the deficit was down to eight points (0-19 to 1-8).

However, Mayo weathered the storm and a goal from Aidan O’Shea on 50 minutes established a 1-21 to 1-9 lead.

One of the biggest cheers of the afternoon from the Mayo supporters was reserved for McDonald, who made his competitive debut at senior level. He scored a point from an acute angle on 55 minutes before finishing well for a goal on 57 minutes.

Monaghan pegged a goal back on 60 minutes courtesy of substitute Robbie Hanratty, who deftly flicked the ball to the back of the net.

McDonald scored a fantastic two-pointer on 62 minutes, to the delight of the Mayo supporters, before concluding his scoring on 64.

Moran's troops continued to battle hard and two late points from Jordan Flynn and O’Donoghue helped round off an impressive display.