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08 Jan 2026

GAA analysis: 5 talking points from Mayo’s win over Sligo in the FBD League opener

We take a look at what we learned from manager Andy Moran's first game in charge

GAA analysis: 5 talking points from Mayo’s win over Sligo in the FBD League opener

Mayo forward Ryan O'Donoghue proved his worth in a playmaker role. Pic: Conor McKeown

#1: Mayo play faster football

It was noticeable in Fr O'Hara Park, especially in the first 15 minutes, and then in their game winning surge in the final quarter, how straightforward Mayo's approach was.

Andy Moran's men kicked the ball long and high into their ever moving forwards. Kuba Callaghan, Darragh Beirne, Adam Barrett and later on Liam Donoghue for example, are happy out if they can take on a defender one-on-one. 

Jack Coyne commented after the match: "Move the ball. Some of the players we have, the likes of Ryan O'Donoghue, these guys, if we move the ball, they're very hard to defend one-on-one. I know it myself. Let the ball do the talking, kick it as far as you can and hopefully win it. So, it's simple, but it's effective."

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