Mayo maintained their unbeaten start to the Allianz National Football League with an impressive five-point win over Cork at McHale Park on Sunday.

The Westerners were without Conor Mortimer as the forward's appeal against an eight-week suspension failed, and Ciaran McDonald was also missing from the teamsheet, but he is expected to return in the coming weeks.

Instead, it was Andy Moran who filled the number 13 jersey left vacant by manager Mickey Moran.

Indeed, Moran's name became more notable when he notched the opening point on 37 seconds. Fintan Goold and then Donncha O'Connor sailed over scores to give Cork a momentary lead.

But, Peadar Gardiner then pointed for the Westerners and two frees from Alan Dillon pushed them into a lead from which they never looked back.

By the break Dillon had hit four scores as Ger Brady caused problems for the Rebel defence along the 40. Kevin O'Sullivan points and a fine effort from David Niblock kept the visitors in touch on a scoreline of 0-7 to 0-5 at
half-time.

After the interval Mayo continued to keep their guests at bay and gradually extended their lead with points from Dillon, who ended with 0-7 (5f) to his credit, a James Gill point and an excellent score from Brady playing at
centre forward.

Now Mayo have won five games on the trot and look certain of a play-off spot, while Cork will go home contemplating relegation after collecting a single win from four league games this year.