Galway United Women rarely get an easy FAI Cup draw, and this year has proven no different as they face a tricky Treaty United side on Saturday in Moyne Villa (kick-off 5pm ).
After advancing to the final of the All-Island Cup, after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Peamount United, Phil Trill’s team face a similarly tricky assignment in the FAI Cup, the only competition they have not made a major mark on in the last few years.
It didn’t help drawing Shelbourne twice in the last two years and in that respect the draw is more favourable. However, Treaty have always tested the Galway side.
United did enjoy a 2-0 win away in Limerick in April but they suffered a damaging loss down there last August. Treaty’s form has been mixed. They have lost narrowly on a couple of occasions and had a few creditable draws. Their most eye-catching win was against a strong Athlone side in the All-Island Cup.
There may be some familiar faces. Jodie Griffin has been in the starting XI of late. Rola Olusola has not been as involved lately. Both players swapped Galway for Limerick in the off-season.
United will believe they can fight on all fronts. This competition may open somewhat in the quarter-final stage, with three of the following teams to be eliminated in the last 16 - Galway United, Treaty, Peamount, Athlone, Wexford and Shamrock Rovers.
Niamh Farrelly made a welcome return last week and scored the decisive penalty. Anna McGough was a late substitute and made a huge contribution with a brilliant, chipped finish to send the game to penalties. The penalties themselves were flawless with Amanda McQuillan leading the charge and United scoring five out of five.
They will hope that this tie will not need to go to the distance but it is another string to this side's bow to know they can win that way should it be required.
