Galway United face the most significant test of their title credentials this Saturday in Tolka Park.
It is a pivotal game also for the hosts, who risk letting an eight-point gap develop should they lose this one. That would be a difficult proposition even seven games into a 22-game season.
United were again almost flawless in Lisburn in the All-Island Cup, winning 4-1. Nicole Nix was between the sticks, with youngsters Anna McGough and Heather Loomes also starting. Kate Thompson played only her second full game of the campaign and got a goal for her efforts.
But the day belonged to Aoibhín Donnelly. She scored twice in the first 13 minutes to set United on the path to victory. This was despite her side being pegged back to 1-1 in between. A goal from Thompson before half-time was decisive. Donnelly finished her hat-trick on the hour mark to put the game beyond doubt.
It means United go to Shels with their forward line all firing. Emma Doherty, Ceola Bergin and Donnelly would be the envy of many. Doherty was rested in Lisburn and Bergin got 30 minutes off the bench. Isabella Beletic and Remini Tillotson got rare rests also.
It is therefore well set up for Phil Trill’s team. They have won eight from eight and will be gunning for another statement win. After their 5-2 reversal against Shamrock Rovers, Shels steadied the ship with wins over Cork and Bohs.
Aoife Kelly will be one to watch. She is athletic and skilful in midfield and has three assists in her last two league games. She has impressed at Rovers and Wexford previously.
Maeve Wollmer has five goals in her last five league games and is also scoring for the Irish Under-19 team. Rachel Graham remains a leader. She started only her second game of the season on Saturday.
United should have some insight into their opponents. Amanda McQuillan and Roma McLaughlin both had very successful spells with Shels. McQuillan’s impact has been immediate. McLaughlin has only had 10 minutes off the bench against Cork thus far but could still prove pivotal.
Whatever United side is favoured on Saturday is likely to have a great blend of youth, experience and quality. They should not want for appetite or desire to lay down a marker for the rest of the division, to back up their explosive start.
