MAYO V ARMAGH - Four random takes from the first half

CONDENSATION SENSATION

IN the run-up to the game it was almost impossible to see out of the Press Box. Arguably the worst-designed media area on earth has an ocean of thick glass and not even the tiniest window one can open. This caused a thick fog of condensation to gather on the outside of the thick glass. Many of the national press decamped into the stand in order to get a clear view, but thankfullly, by the time the game began the glass had cleared.

FACILITIES OVERLOAD

IT has long been flagged that the facilities for patrons with disabilities, including wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility, in MacHale Park are very poor. In fairness to Mayo GAA, they are working towards a total revamp of the situation, but the urgent need for new facilities was brought into sharp focus today.

There were 12 supporters in wheelchairs in the glass area at the top of the stand, a relatively small number, and the place was dangerously jammed.

This was a very unsatisfactory situation for the very dedicated supporters of both Mayo and Armagh. Patrons deserve better, much better.

BROLLY BOTHER

THE driving rain and the howling wind meant there was a great selection to umberellas in MacHale Park for the big game. However, they were under pressure on the terraces and one can only feel sorry for the man who waged a constant battle with his yellow 'rain-protector' on the McHale Road side of the ground. It buckled on a number of occasions only to right itself each time, until it finally twisted into infinity just before half-time.

REF JUSTICE

A poor first half from referee David Coldrick and his officials. The calls were inconsistent and the interpretation of the tackle seemed to change with every passing minute. To make matters worse the officials drove supporters mad with their application of the 'breach' rule early in the game, making two contradictory calls withing a minute of one another.