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04 Nov 2025

All Blacks-Ireland tie sparks Mayo family reunion Stateside

The families reunited in Illinois on their trans-Atlantic trip to the Soldier Field in Chicago to watch Ireland face New Zealand

All Blacks-Ireland tie sparks Mayo family reunion Stateside

The Balls, O'Tooles, and O'Malleys travelled from Ballihip, Louisburgh, Thornhill, and Betra Road, Westport were all in Soldier Field. Pic: Sportsfile

A group of West Mayo cousins made the trip to Chicago to watch Ireland play New Zealand on Saturday night in Soldier Field.

The Balls, O'Tooles, and O'Malleys travelled from Ballihip, Louisburgh, Thornhill, and Betra Road, Westport to their relatives in Darien, Illinois, and all attended the big game at the weekend.

The cousins, who are big Mayo GAA supporters, also regularly attend Connacht rugby matches in Galway and beyond.

They combined the game in Soldier Field with a visit to their cousins in Illinois.

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