Most sides that lose in the manner that Galway United Women did last week itch to get back on the field to right the wrongs of an under-par performance. They might have hoped for more hospitable circumstances than an away trip to Shelbourne in which to do so.
Since an opening day defeat to Shamrock Rovers, Shels have been in imperious form. Winning six in a row, with a scoring total of 26-3, this side appear as tough as they ever were.
Shels’ quality and experience is unquestionable. United will have to answer the question as to whether they can respond to a dispiriting reversal.
There were mitigating circumstances. The third they conceded embarrassed only the officials and not the team as it quite clearly never crossed the line. The referee and linesman, who television replays suggested was closer to the 18-yard line when the ball bounced out from the post, did the league a disservice with their decision.
United responded well in the third quarter but were repelled by an inspired Maria Matthaiou performance in goals. Eventually, they ran out of steam.
They will likely need to play for the full 90 in Tolka. They seemed to struggle in spells in games against Athlone and Wexford, particularly in midfield, and this is an area that Shels could look to exploit.
If United are to sustain a title push, at least a positive performance will be necessary. It would be enough to yield some points too.
