Crowds flock to the big screen at the mall for the All-Ireland Mayo vs Kerry final
The Mayo News have hit the big screen to meet the supporters down at the big screen by the Mall in Castlebar
TENSIONS are high but hopes are higher down at the big screen at the mall down in the centre of Mayo’s county town.
The Mayo News have been wandering the hallowed grass of the Mall, seeking to capture the thoughts and imaginations of the dogged Mayo fans before the match kicks off.
Donall Joyce, 24, from Laughtavarry, said: “I’m a bit nervous now, but I feel in my bones Mayo will pull through. It was a great year for the team. We are coming in as big underdogs but it’s a young team with a lot to give - and an even better manager.”
“Andy Moran is the man for the job. He’s brought in a lot of talent. He knows the game inside and out and he brings a lot of energy to the dressing room.”
Lorraine, 63, from Ballyvary said: “I’m feeling it in my waters. If spirit could win it, there’s no doubt they’d have it. Lose or draw we are proud of them.”
When asked how she slept last night, she was quick to say: “I didn’t sleep.” Lorraine said when she did indeed sleep, she dreamt of the boys lifting Sam Maguire’s cup into the air.
The woman explained: “It’s more than a football match. Today will make or break the county - but if we don’t have it we will come across stronger and tougher and more resilient than ever,” she said.
Caoimhín Duffy, 24, from Breaffy said he’s confident they’ll have it. The young man detailed that it’s been 75 years in the making, and he thinks Mayo will win by a two point lead.
Kailum Gallagher, 24 from Manulla, said he slept very poorly last night with the nerves.The staunch Mayo supporter said he’s “You’ll know in the first 20 minutes, if they have it. I think because they’re so young, they’ve nothing to lose.”
When the crowds of those at the big screen were asked who the man of the match would be, the name on everybody’s lips is the eighteen-year-old gasúr Kobe McDonald.
There is no better feeling than your county winning the All-Ireland - and today Mayo has a strong chance. Knock Basilica is lit up red and green, the prayers have been said, and the whole country is watching those boys in white.
Mayo now waits with baited breaths for the lads to get it over the line.