It appears as if the cup might have come at a good time for Galway United.
Their last couple of outings in the league have been among their more difficult this season and a cup contest against non-league opposition gives a chance for a reset.
This is particularly the case as this game will precede two critically important fixtures in the league, where United entertain Waterford and travel to Cork.
Recent results have seen Waterford overtake them in the league. More ominous still has been the upturn in Sligo’s fortunes.
When United travelled to the Showgrounds, nearly four weeks ago, they enjoyed a 13-point gap over their Connacht rivals. A win that night would have sealed their supremacy this season.
Instead, that loss, and subsequent losses for United, compounded by spirited wins for Sligo mean there is only 6 points between the sides with 12 games to play.
In this context, it is hoped a game against Tolka Rovers will provide the tonic. The visitors boast a few familiar names. Jake Hyland had a good League of Ireland career and is young still at 29. Stephen Meaney was often a handful playing for Drogheda or Longford and has scored as a visitor at Eamonn Deacy Park previously.
Nonetheless, United are expected to advance comfortably. Despite there being some jeopardy again in the league, this should not militate against taking the cup seriously. Drogheda proved last season that a good cup run need not be a hindrance to league form.
Selection will be interesting for this game. Aaron Bolger and Axel Piesold might benefit with more minutes. Malcolm Shaw will be keen for a goal. Others, such as Brendan Clarke and Killian Brouder may hope for inclusion from the off.
Management will not change for the sake of it and will prioritise progression in the cup. Despite recent setbacks, United is now a name that no one will want in the draw, should they advance.
It has been remarked that they have the makings of a cup team. They seemed to prove that thesis in 2023. They were unlucky to bow out on penalties to Shelbourne last year.
With the improvement in the league’s coefficient, the winners will advance to the Europa League and reportedly make a minimum of €650,000. Therefore, the stakes have never been higher.
Despite all that, the most important thing for United now seems like a win.
