Kieran Shannon, an Irish Examiner columnist who was part of James Horan's Mayo backroom staff as a sports psychologist has written an excellent article in the paper today. The piece is an ode to Horan's time in charge while also telling of how he handled the announcement of his departure from the team setup.
Shannon also deals with the candidates to succeed Horan, Tony McEntee is his favoured option but admits it is unlikely. He also mentions Kevin McStay and Liam McHale.
While writing about the replacement of Horan, Shannon perhaps alludes to a deficiency in tactical nous which Horan exhibited during his time as Mayo manager. He says that if the next man in charge adds some "flexibility and sophistication" then they will win an All-Ireland in the next two years.
Maintain the culture James established and throw into the mix a little more flexibility and sophistication in how the side sets up and the lads will close the deal either next year or the year after, if not both seasons.
Mayo failed to deal with Kieran Donaghy during Saturday's replay in Limerick, he caused havoc nearly everytime a high ball went into him. They saw the damage which the big man did the previous Sunday but did not implement a plan to counteract him. It was left to Ger Cafferkey, who couldn't handle him during the first game, to once again fall short.
On The Sunday Game, Kevin McStay hypothesised that a bigger man like Donal Vaughan or one of the O'Shea brothers could have been used in the Mayo fullback line to nullify the Donaghy threat. They really needed to do something.
Perhaps this is the "flexibility and sophistication" to which Shannon refers.
Picture credit: SPORTSFILE
