Not so long ago, Galway United’s trip to Athlone in the third last game of the season might have been expected to play a role in shaping the outcome of the title.
However, Athlone’s imperious league form, coupled with some disappointing defeats for United, means that Athlone became champions last week without kicking a ball.
Yet, It is far from a dead rubber, with second place still in the hands of Phil Trill’s side. It might not be a bad time to face the champions, who lost out to Shels in an FAI Cup Final last week.
United’s own situation is not as positive. Last week’s defeat in Wexford, off the back of losing at home to Bohs means they are a side struggling for form. They have only scored once in their last four league games.
Although United had plenty of chances going forward, they will not have been happy with the manner of concession for particularly the second goal where Devon Olive was all alone in the box to convert her second. The third came from a simple clearance from goalkeeper Maria O’Sullivan, who also made some fine saves.
Absences have been well documented but United are also in a tricky situation as some key performers have struggled for form. Moreover, they have not enjoyed the impact off the bench they did earlier in the season when they seemed to grow in contests and secured a string of wins late on after trailing early.
Shels put in their performance of the season to win their second cup, but there has been little between the sides when they have met. Both have to face the champions before they meet on the last day of the season.
Home advantage will be important on that day but United will have to get to that game and be within striking distance. Shels have their own advantage in terms of their superior goal difference. They had also lost a couple in the league before their big win in Tallaght.
There is plenty still to play for but Saturday afternoon represents a big test for a side that looks low on confidence.
