I watched Sunday's provincial finals with my uncle. As they games turned one sided the topic of Mayo came up.
I was of the opinion that the bus had passed for the current Mayo team. Their age profile was high and they looked a bit jaded. Long years of championship involvement to semi and all-ireland stage with many replays seem to have sapped the energy from the team. I can't see them beating Kerry or Dublin and can't see them improving enough or finding the extra forward class. Much to my disappointment, like most of the country we'd all like the wait to be over. I think they should account for Cork on Sunday, easily enough.
My uncle surprised me with his opinions. He's usually an astute man. He simply said you can't fathom the hurt being felt in Mayo. The amount of people writing them off. The constant belittling of Aidan O'Shea, who is coming into form. He said he felt they were going to be carried over the line by a surge of hurt and emotion this year... I didn't agree.
To conclude, are Mayo better placed to finally win Sam this year?