Galway United face a tough test in Tallaght on Saturday afternoon. They take on an improving Shamrock Rovers team who could put the final nail in their title aspirations.
It is third against fourth, but United are some ways ahead, emphasising a gulf between the top three and the rest. However, United are looking up at a gulf of their own after failing to win against Treaty United last week.
With only six league games to go, United are now nine points adrift of Athlone, albeit with one game in hand. Despite only losing once in their 16 league games, their title dreams are fading, having gained only eight points from their last 15 available.
By contrast, Athlone and Shels have steamed forward with maximum points gained in the same period. In fact, Athlone have won their last seven league games. Their last dropped points were when the top two drew two months ago.
It is difficult to keep this pace but there can be some disappointment in the United ranks, given the standards this group has set. They have reached this level previously and would have been keen to go one further.
Prior to this season, there would have been some optimism that the squad had progressed with key acquisitions to launch a serious bid on the league. However, some injuries and unavailabilities have hampered them.
Additions at the back have helped in recent weeks, but going forward United have struggled to kill games off. Saturday was the fourth draw in recent months where they would have hoped for more.
Amanda McQuillan proved her worth again on Saturday. She was the busier of the keepers in a disappointing first half. United were better in the second. Aislinn Meaney showed intent early with an audacious effort. Niamh Farrelly and Aoibheannn Costello were close too and though they hung on at the end, the visitors felt they would have merited a point.
There is a long off-season for reflection. Finishing strongly will be a goal in its own right.
Winning on Saturday will cement United’s position in third and could generate some needed momentum for the run-in.
