Mayo will be seeking revenge for their defeat in the NFL semi-final when they host Galway in the Connacht SFC decider at McHale Park on Sunday, throw-in at 4.00pm.
Neither side has been severely tested in the SFC this year, although Galway had to dig themselves out of a hole against Roscommon. The winner of this clash will gain a lot in confidence for the coming (possible) eight weeks of action.
Mayo are a stronger side from 1 to 15. Coach Mickey Moran has them forming a formidable team unit that should pose a far greater physical threat to Galway than in their previous encounter. Billy Joe Padden will be a key player for them.
Galway need their defensive and midfield units to click so that they will not be relying on their forwards to perform another great escape. They still look at little green at the back and there is an awful lot relying on Joe Bergin in the middle of the park.
The overriding feeling is that if Mayo can contain the threat of Galway's forwards they could walk away with this one. However, it should prove to be a close battle with Moran's men winning by a point or two.
Verdict: Mayo
