Four games in-a-row and four losses. Mayo have impressed under Stephen Rochford but when it comes to the rivalry in the west, Galway certainly have their number.
The final score today was 1-13 Galway 0-11 Mayo and it is becoming increasingly clear just how much Kevin Walsh prioritises clashes with Mayo. Last month Galway overcame Mayo in the FBD League despite being reduced to 12 men, today they had Paul Conroy dismissed too.
For Mayo, the game must be taken in context of next May's Connacht quarter-final as the sides meet again in the opener. You can't read much into football in February but the two major flashpoints indicate the bite has returned to this rivalry.
Cillian O'Connor was sent off for an off-the-ball strike while his brother, Diarmuid, also saw the line for a second yellow.
O'Connor can have no complaints for his dismissal, with a wild forearm striking Eoghan Kerin in front of the linesman.
Scéal an chluiche! Bua do Ghaillimh, triúr curtha den pháirc. @Galway_GAA 1-13 @MayoGAA 0-11
Gaillimh maintain their perfect start to the #AllianzLeagues campaign. #GAABEO pic.twitter.com/pjn3gBjygs— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) February 11, 2018
Galway have now beaten Mayo in succesive Championships, the FBD League and the Allianz League. Their status in Division One seems secure now, an unexpected, early feat particularly given the absence of the Corofin players currently preparing for the AIB Club Championship.
SEE ALSO: Watch: Galway's Barry McHugh Hits Sensational Goal Against Mayo
