All-Ireland final key moments: Kobe McDonald's 45 put Mayo on the road, Ryan O’Donoghue’s two-pointer took them home

Kerry secured their All-Ireland final victory over Mayo with a dominant performance, despite a spirited comeback from the underdogs. David Clifford, in his first All-Ireland final, opened the scoring with a spectacular goal, setting a tone of efficiency and ruthlessness for Kerry.

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He laid off a pass for Seán O’Shea under the Hogan Stand, turned for the end line and slowed just enough to flatfoot Donnacha McHugh before bursting on to O’Shea’s gorgeous fist pass. He rounded Jack Livingstone and slotted home with consummate Cliffordian ease.

Mayo struggled early, missing early chances for two-pointers while Kerry capitalized on their opportunities. However, Mayo gradually found their footing with scores from Jack Carney and Ryan O’Donoghue. A crucial moment came when O’Donoghue forced a turnover leading to a free, which was moved up, energizing the Mayo crowd and signaling a potential shift in momentum.

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It felt like the first time they could see a road to victory.

The second half saw Mayo take the lead for the first time through Kobe McDonald's impressive 45-meter kick, a moment of pressure for the young player. Darragh Beirne also contributed with a point. Despite Mayo's efforts to secure a lead, Ryan O’Donoghue's late two-pointer ultimately sealed the win for Kerry, marking a significant achievement for the team.

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It was a pressure kick – the youngest player on the field trusted with a crucial chance. A few steps back, a look at the posts and he drilled it. It was the first time Mayo took the lead. They never gave it up.