It has been a difficult spell for the team. The loss of Moses Dyer has hurt. The unavailability of Patrick Hickey has left a chasm. The fall off in the form of key players and personalities has been the most damaging of all.
Ollie Horgan, a veteran of these types of predicaments, always preached balance in the group, not to get too high when winning, nor too low when losing. Externally, the mood feels more militant, with a growing frustration at the on-field fortunes.
It is perfectly possible to make valid criticism of the team’s recent run. The defensive lapses that contributed to the Waterford goals on Friday cannot be afforded at this level or at this time of the season.
But what has been largely absent from the commentary is context. The reign of John Caulfield has had its ups and downs, but it has raised standards and professionalism in the club and cemented pride in the jersey. There is great sport to be had in Woodquay before and after games, dissecting formations and substitutions.
The role of a League of Ireland manager - even with increasing professionalism - continues to encompass logistics, fundraising, recruitment, public relations, infrastructure et al. Those privy to these minefields will appreciate what the Caulfield era has done to drastically improve Galway United Football Club.
Yet an unhappy mix of injuries, departures and drop-offs in form have hit at once and confidence appears to be suffering. The support of the crowd can often sustain a side through these testing periods. The fractious history of Galway soccer does not provide much succour in that regard.
This rancour will appear mild in comparison to the mutinous feel around Turner’s Cross. Ticket prices, form and now a sell-off of players in the transfer window, with Milan Mbeng leaving for Shelbourne on deadline day, could concoct a poisonous atmosphere tomorrow night. Their woes were further compounded when stand-out performer Cathal O’Sullivan was ruled out of the rest of the season with an ACL injury.
United must use the disquiet to their advantage. They have things in their favour. Dara McGuinness was excellent in the second half last week and could be a perfect foil for Stephen Walsh. 'Walshy' led by example and always carried the fight. He can be counted on the continue to do so and will inspire others around him.
Reports were that Stephen Dooley had signed for United this week. Another veteran of Cork’s success under Caulfield, along with McCormack, Buckley and Keohane, he brings pedigree, experience and another attacking option.
Keohane himself was a huge addition also last Friday as he returns from injury. Patrick Hickey did not look far off it in the pre-match warm-up. If both can get some minutes tomorrow, the odds tilt in United’s favour.
There are undoubted and uncharacteristic problems at the back to be addressed. There is some strength in depth in every position to make changes if required. Brendan Clarke, Colm Horgan and Garry Buckley were among the substitutes last Friday night.
There is plenty of leadership in the group and this situation will be a test of it. Five or six have or could captain teams in the Premier Division without issue. Being only three points clear of the relegation playoff spot was not anticipated but is a challenge that must be met head-on. Sligo continue to perform, and Waterford have created a cushion.
The backdrop calls to mind the previous game against Cork, when after four losses on the bounce, the wagons circled in the camp. The senior leaders drove home messages about standards and basics.
It helped them to a 2-1 win. A similar process is likely underway; a similar outcome is vitally important.
Supporters' bus to Turner's Cross
A supporters' bus to Friday's Premier Division match at Turner's Cross will depart from McGinns, Woodquay at 3pm.
Seats can be booked by contacting Ronan Coleman at (087 ) 6972823 or Dominick Walsh at (087 ) 9163438.
