Hosting Wexford has not been without its problems for Galway United’s Women. Saturday’s visitors spoiled the party on United’s inaugural competitive fixture in 2023. Last season, they caused more damage, when they came from behind to record an unlikely 2-1 win in Eamonn Deacy Park.
That win precipitated a three-match losing streak in the league, that ultimately cost Phil Trill’s side the title.
United have inflicted damage of their own in the off-season. The scorer of the equaliser, Ceola Bergin, made the move from Wexford to Galway in the off-season. She has impressed on the wing. Nicole Nix and Jayne Merren, who both turned out in goals for Wexford against United last season, also came west and provide the options in goal in the absence of Abbiegayle Ronayne.
They have all played their part in a successful start to the season for United. Three wins from three is all that was in their control. The result and performance against Shamrock Rovers was their biggest statement of intent. They will need another on Saturday.
Wexford have been inconsistent so far but have home wins against Peamount and Sligo on the board. There is little shame in their loss on the road to Athlone, who have started well. However, a 3-0 reversal in Dalymount was a concerning result.
As well as their losses in goals and Bergin, they also lost Aoibheann Clancy to Shelbourne who has gone on to be called up to the Irish senior squad. There have been some impressive incomings to mitigate those losses, none more so than Aoife Kelly who impressed for Shamrock Rovers last season.
Maria O’Sullivan went the opposite way to Nix and Merren from United. Becky Cassin and Freya De Mange came from Cork City. Perhaps most notably, they retained the talents of Ellen Molloy and Rianna Jarrett who have huge pedigree up front. They will provide a serious test for United.
So far, United have had a variety of answers. There has been plenty of change in the teams that have taken the field. Kate Thompson filled in at right-back against Rovers. Abbie Callanan made her first start on the right. Niamh Farrelly came back into the side and gave her best display in maroon.
There have also been some ever-presents who have made big contributions already. Eve Dossen is showing leadership and strength at the back. Lucy Jayne Grant showed her passing ability under pressure last time out. Isabella Beletic will be fundamental to any success the side enjoys.
Emma Doherty has carried the torch admirably in Julie-Ann Russell’s absence up front. She is quick, able and hard-working. She already has three goals in her first three games. Out wide, Aislinn Meaney excelled in the opening two games before missing out against Rovers.
Most of these players will have to turn in a very good performance for United to get a positive result on Saturday. In May, United face a trio of difficult games against Athlone, Shels and Treaty. They will want to go into those games with as many points as possible from their opening games.
It is likely that as it was last year, the home game against Wexford will prove significant.
