Makeshift United stop the rot with hard earned point

Galway United 1

Drogheda United 1

Cian O’Connell at Eamonn Deacy Park

CONSIDERING how ravaged Galway United were through injury and suspensions, Monday evening’s Eamonn Deacy Park encounter proved to be heartening for the diehards who witnessed a gutsy display which was enough to end a four game SSE Airtricity League Premier Division losing streak.

The fact that the smallest league crowd of the season at the Dyke Road venue of 651 attended was a real pity as the Galway United starting XI, which included three under 19 players, produced a performance that was wonderfully spirited.

Drogheda United’s physicality bothered the home team throughout the match, but only one goal was leaked which ensured Tommy Dunne’s charges eked out a precious draw.

That was achieved because of a smartly-taken Jake Keegan goal on the stroke of half-time which gave Galway a scarcely deserved advantage. From then until the finish it was always going to be a grim, uphill struggle and so it transpired.

Mick Daly’s 70th minute header restored parity and while Drogheda looked the more likelier victors in the closing stages, gritty Galway hung on in there. The commitment and character United demonstrated late on augurs well because a fascinating relegation battle ‘will go to the wire’ according to Dunne.

With Limerick FC and Sligo Rovers revitalised in recent weeks it is difficult to argue with the Tribesmen’s boss assertion.  His Drogheda counterpart Johnny McDonnell shares similar sentiments too and he was impressed by the manner Galway’s youngsters settled.

A chronic absentee list meant Dunne had to give youth its fling and the results were encouraging as the three teenagers contributed handsomely. Aran McConnell was diligent and composed in the centre of the park, providing David O’Leary with an able midfield partner. Wide on the left Antaine O Laoi showed some clever touches and his early set piece deliveries were sharp also.

Conor Melody operated in a withdrawn role behind the excellent Keegan, who strained every sinew with a typically productive shift. Melody’s footwork and craft drifting effectively between the lines caused Drogheda some discomfort – his 81st minute sally was particularly classy hinting at a footballer of immense potential.

Dunne noted his contribution and stressed Melody’s innate ability to beat opponents. In the current squad that is arguably a trait that is lacking, so Melody could well see further action during the remainder of the campaign.

Following the wretched defeat against Bohemians which was stuffed with woe – a heavy loss featuring a red card and two players visiting the Mater Hospital across from Dalymount Park – Galway craved a positive start when Drogheda came to the banks of the Corrib. It is nearly what Galway got, but Samuel Oji just couldn’t get the necessary purchase on a smashing third minute O Laoi corner.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.