Mayo Gaels win thriller against Moy Davitts

MAYO SENIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 1B

Mayo Gaels 1-16

Moy Davitts 1-15

Mayo Abbey

THE joy football brings to people was clearly evident in Abbey Park this afternoon as the home side edgd out their guests by a single point in perfect conditions. The fare on offer was hugely enjoyable and kept the healthy attendance on the edge of their seats until the very last whistle as Moy Davitts tried desperately to get at least a share of the spoils.

Mayo Gaels were much the better team in the first half and enjoyed a 0-12 to 1-5 lead at the interval. Moy Davitts had got off to a great start with Brian Reape bagging a goal in the opening minutes but the home side then took charge with Jack Fallon, James Jennings, John Gallagher and Peter Gallagher among the men troubling the umpires.

Ethan Henry and Brian Morrin were doing well in the middle of the field while Ruairi Keane and Liam Hughes were prominent behind them.

Moy Davitts were always in the game and points from Reape, Jamie Clarke and Cian McHale kept them within touching distance at the change of ends.

Moy Davitts had the slight breeze on their backs in the second half and made it pay handsomely. The introduction of Liam Byrne from the subs' bench had a major impact and he forced Paul Mannion into a fine save after 36 minutes as they gradually pared back the deficit. A Jamie Clarke points after 52 minutes put Moy Davitts ahead for the first time in a long time, 1-12 to 0-14, and Mayo Gaels needed a response.

They got exactly what they required four minutes from the end of normal time when James Jennings bundled home a goal and a John Gallagher pointed free left three between them.

Moy Davitts threw everything at the home side in the closing moments and points from Reape and Byrne left just one between them before the final whistle confirmed a memorable win for the home side who played some fine football at times.

A full report will be carried in Tuesday's Mayo News