Tyrone suffered relegation from Division One of the Allianz Football League despite an impressive 2-20 to 1-16 win over Dublin on a dramatic day of action.
With Armagh hammering Derry 4-24 to 1-18 and Kerry always looking in control as they beat Galway 3-24 to 2-19, Tyrone were left hoping that Donegal could be their salvation by defeating Mayo.
The Castlebar contest proved a tense affair as Dara O Baoill had a late penalty chance to put Donegal ahead only to see his tame effort saved by Mayo keeper Colm Reape.
Had O Baoill converted the spot-kick Donegal would have moved 1-18 to 1-17 ahead but instead, Mayo went on triumph 1-18 to 1-16 as they not only survived the drop but also ended up qualifying for next weekend's Division One decider where they will face the Kingdom.