Galway 0-26

Mayo 0-16

By DARREN KELLY IN CASTLEBAR

WHATEVER people’s opinions are about Gaelic football’s new revolutionary rules, they are certainly favouring Galway so far as Padraic Joyce’s charges made it two wins from two in the National League with this 10 point victory over Mayo.

It was the Tribesmen’s biggest league win over their rivals since 1983 as, after staying within one score at the break, they outscored Kevin McStay’s team by seven two-pointers to one with the elements on a sunny day.

Shane Walsh was the star in attack contributing four doubles but Cillian Ó Curraoin was on his tails with three doubles from placed balls. Paul Conroy settled for singles while Sean Kelly enjoyed the space going forward contributing two efforts.

What’s clear is that Galway’s understanding of the FRC’s and Jim Gavin’s vision is stronger than most at this early stage. And after just surviving in the top flight in 2024, they’ll be glad to be sole leaders of Division 1 after two rounds.

And with more teams, including the maroon and white, embracing the faster tempo it’s unlikely any changes will be made before their next trip to Derry on St. Valentine’s weekend.

In contrast, Mayo haven’t fully comprehended the new set-up and were penalised twice for 3-on-3 infringements (not leaving three players in attack). They lived dangerously with this rule often leaving two players standing on the new half way line.

Galway also rode their luck. Conroy had to dart forward while Cillian McDaid ran out to challenge a Mayo player before quickly putting on the breaks. With the wind, Mayo made the brighter start as Sean Morahan pointed inside 40 seconds but Galway’s response was swift.

The Tribesmen looked more assertive with Dylan McHugh raiding the right flank and his effort was deflected for a ’45.  Connor Gleeson, who later took a sideline kick in defence, stepped up and earned the wrath of home supporters by taking his time before splitting the posts.

John Maher, one of three late changes along with Liam Silke and Walsh, resumed his midfield partnership with Conroy and the city players combined for the latter to make it 0-2 to 0-1. Conor Reid equalised but Walsh restored Galway’s advantage on nine minutes.

Kelly’s regular forays forward were rewarded when Cein D’Arcy picked him out 60 seconds later.  And when Walsh held possession in the corner before the quarter hour, he waited for McHugh before sending the Corofin wing back in for a score.

Pictured: Galway midfielder Paul Conroy is about to get his pass away against Mayo’s Fergal Boland during Sunday’s National Football League tie at MacHale Park. Photos: Joe O’Shaughnessy.