Galway United travel to Drogheda tomorrow night in form and with a huge opportunity.
Eight Premier Division teams remain in the competition, but all will fancy their chances of progression. Shamrock Rovers and Shels have already bowed out, one of Pat’s and Bohs will exit on Saturday.
For their part, Galway United are unbeaten in eight games. It is their best run since May 2024. It has been timely in their efforts to survive for a fourth season in the top flight. Tomorrow night’s opponents are their key competition in avoiding the promotion/relegation game.
It continues to be John Caulfield’s key concern in the league even if European qualification and automatic relegation remain remote possibilities.
Galway United hold a six-point advantage over tomorrow’s opponents with a game in hand. There is little between the sides otherwise, as evidenced in their 0-0 draw four weeks ago.
Perhaps it is a freer hit for the Tribesmen, with Drogheda’s position in the league more perilous, five points ahead of Sligo and four adrift of Waterford, whose incredible form continued with a 2-0 win in Inchicore. They suffered a damaging defeat to Louth rivals Dundalk at home on Friday. After leading 2-0, they lost 3-2 with Galwayman Daryl Horgan netting a superb 89th minute winner.
Galway United had even later heroics from Jimmy Keohane to thank for salvaging a point against Shels. They had fallen behind late to a somewhat controversial goal in the 80th minute.
There had been promising signs in the first, Ed McCarthy came closest after he showed wonderful skill to control a wonderful Wasiri Williams diagonal ball. At the other end, Leigh Kavanagh was sharp to clear one off the line after a mix-up at the back.
Shels turned it on in the second half and Hugo da Cunha had to be alert to keep them at bay. He made a great save from Daniel Kelly’s penalty too. His teammates were convinced that James Norris bundled the rebound over the line with the aid of his hand. Once calmness was restored, United had the drive and ability and class of Keohane to pinch a valuable point in the 94th minute.
It sets them up well for the trip east. Interestingly, subs were not introduced until the 78th minute last week. John Caulfield may elect to freshen his side up.
He certainly has options. Francely Lomboto made an impression in his short stint on the pitch. Frantz Pierrot might relish a chance to showcase his talents at his old club.
United were big and physical at the back last week with Wasiri Williams, Anthony O’ Connor and Leigh Kavanagh. They will need those traits again to match up with Drogheda.
However, it is the touch of class that was evident at the end last Friday. It is that class that is sprinkled around the squad that might ultimately make the difference and propel United to a mouthwatering semi-final.
Supporters' bus
Supporters' buses to Friday's FAI Cup quarter-final in Drogheda will depart from McGinns, Woodquay at 3pm, with pick-up along the route. Seats can be booked by contacting Kian Kenny at 087 9404349 or Ronan Coleman at 087 6972823.
