Mayo SFC: Ballina stunned by Garrymore as Crossmolina begin life without Kobe

With McDonald beginning life in the AFL with St Kilda this week, his club-mates delivered a statement performance in his absence.

BIG LOSS: Ballina missed Evan Regan after he exited through injury in the shock defeat to Garrymore. Pic Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Ballina Stephenites’ ambitions of winning a fourth Mayo SFC title in a row were dealt a big blow when they crashed to a shock four point defeat away to Garrymore in the opening round at James Stephens Park on Saturday evening.

A goal from former Mayo defender Caolan Crowe in the 56th minute proved crucial as Garrymore — who last won the last of their six Mayo SFC titles in 1982 — upset the odds to run out 1-12 to 0-11 winners.