Mayo expect tough challenge from Sligo

Connacht champions Mayo travel to Ballinode today to take on Sligo IT in Section A of the FBD Insurance League.

However, goalkeeper Peter Burke and midfielder Fergal Kelly will not be included, having opted out of the 2005 campaign.

And there is more worry for manager John Maughan, as Gary Ruane and Fergal Costello are rumoured to be considering their inter-county futures.

Burke has withdrawn his services due to work commitments, and Kelly has not been recalled to the squad, along with Declan Sweeney.

Ruane is to undergo surgery on a groin injury and Dublin-based Costello is taking time out from the inter-county scene.

Sligo will be expected to put up a strong challenge, with Donegal players Paul Durcan, Eamon McGee, Karl Lacey, Christy Toye and Michael Doherty in the side.

In the other game in the section, Connacht finalists Roscommon take on a Micheal Meehan-led NUIG in Kiltoom.

In Section B, GMIT, who defeated Leitrim last week, host Sligo in Menlough, and Leitrim, with Dessie Dolan Sr in charge, take on Clare in Bornacoola.