As expected, both Tooreen and Ballyhaunis made it through their respective Mayo SHC semi-finals this evening. They’ll now meet in the TJ Tyrell Cup decider on 12th September.
Tooreen arranged for their match with Westport to be streamed live via YouTube. I caught a bit of the first half myself and it was apparent early on that the champions were going to prevail with a good deal to spare.
Tooreen were more or less out the gate by half-time, as they trooped off with a ten-point lead racked up. There was no respite for Westport after the break either as the champions pulled further away, winning at the finish by 4-21 to 0-10.
The other semi-final was a much more competitive affair. Castlebar Mitchels started well and by half-time they led Ballyhaunis by a point, going in 1-7 to 0-9 in front.
The home team upped the ante after the break, however, and a steady supply of points saw them break Mitchels’ resolve. Ballyhaunis ended up winning by nine points, on a scoreline of 0-21 to 1-9.
So, once again the county SHC decider will be an East Mayo derby tie. Eight out of the last ten finals have seen these two great rivals go head-to-head, with each of them claiming four final victories over the other in that timeframe, as well as playing out a draw in 2016.
Tooreen will go into the final as strong favourites to complete a four-in-a-row of Tyrell Cup victories but you can be sure that Ballyhaunis will do everything in their power to bring that run to an end and to claim the silverware themselves for the first time since their replay victory over the neighbours in 2016. It has the makings of a final to savour.
With the new crowd restrictions just imposed is this the end of the road for inter county football this year
Yes I would think so Mayo 36
Looking forward to clarification from the Gaa .
What does it mean for us involved with underage teams . Will parents not be allowed attend matches??
My ball – I also coach an underage team and asked this question. It is currently being assumed that 1 parent per child may be considered a guardian, if required. That would mean they can attend training and games.
@Cod . Yes that’s what it reads like from Gaa but kinda contradicts what was announced about games behind closed doors . No win really as parents will gather in bunches outside if dry and probably sit in a car with another parent for a chat if wet . Hope games keep going for the kids sake , not to worried if parents allowed in .
Thought the Gaa were a bit quick of the mark looking for meeting. Could have steadied up and waited till the following morning.
Its Its people’s health and even with less crowds at matches, there is Zero social distancing going on at my Midlands base .