Slick Mayo overcome Roscommon while kicking six two pointers

Connacht FBD League Round Two

Mayo 0-22

Roscommon 1-6

In Roscommon

On a wet and cold afternoon in Dr Hyde Park, Andy Moran’s Mayo got their second win in as many games as long-range shooting paved the way for Mayo's victory.

The Green and Red kicked six two pointers across the hour and it was clear that the message from the sideline was to shoot early and often, particularly in the second period when Mayo had a strong wind at their backs.

It was Enda Hession who opened Mayo’s account as scoring chances were limited early on. Goalkeeper Rob Hennelly made his way forward and the Raheny clubman kicked over two placed ball efforts from 45’s.

The hosts got the only goal of the afternoon through Daire Cregg after 13 minutes. Points from Aidan O’Shea and Jack Carney made sure the visitors finished the first half in a strong manner as they went in at the break leading 0-8 to 1-2.

Jack Carney kicked a long range point within 20 seconds of the resumption while Ryan O’Donoghue also kicked a two pointer as it appeared Mayo raised the intensity levels. 

Truth be told, Roscommon struggled with their Connacht rivals although it must be said how inexperienced Mark Dowd’s side were. Without the St Brigid’s players who are set to contest the All Ireland Club Final next weekend, the hosts went with an inexperienced team, many of them tasting inter-county football for the first time. 

For Mayo, Ryan O’Donoghue impressed while young players such as Cathal Keaveney, Seamus Howard, Darragh Beirne and Tom Lydon all played well.

As time went on Mayo kicked four further two pointers through Adam Barrett, Tommy Conroy and two from the boot of Tom Lydon to copper-fasten the win. In the end, it was a fine performance from Andy Moran’s side who now look forward to next Sunday's FBD Connacht league final where Galway await in Tuam.