"This is full-on for Mayo now" - GAA analyst

Mayo's clash against Monaghan in the first round of the All-Ireland SFC qualifiers has been described as 'a full-on encounter' that will test the mettle of both sides.

The attractive encounter will be played at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park on Saturday evening, June 4, at 4 p.m.

But it is set to be a sell-out with tickets set to go on sale ahead of the weekend.

After missing out on hosting the Connacht SFC final, it's a welcome boost for the Castlebar business sector.

The Connaught Telegraph's GAA columnist, Martin Carney, said it is a good draw for Mayo as James Horan's charges have a good record against the Monaghan side.

"The fact it's in Castlebar is a big boost. It gives Mayo a great chance of advancing and restoring spirits after the setback against Galway," he stated.

However, there are a number of injury concerns within the camp.

Former Mayo star Kevin McStay said Monaghan will present a formidable test for Mayo.

"It will certainly show where Mayo are at the moment and reveal their ambitions.

"This is not a walk-in fixture to the qualifiers like they had in previous years. This is full-on now," he said.

The other fixtures are: Clare v Meath, Cork v Louth and Armagh v Tyrone.