Galway Bay FM News Archives
Mervue Utd make their point on an historic night
Date Published: 14-Mar-2011
Mervue United 1
Cork City 1
CIARAN TIERNEY
The elements may not have been kind to Mervue United on the night of their first real ‘home’ game in the First Division of the League of Ireland, but a spirited fight-back from the players gave the hardcore followers a result to savour at Fahy’s Field on Friday night.
After two years at Terryland, Mervue were finally in a position to play a League game at their own home ground. But the incessant downpour right up to kick-off kept the attendance down to just over 400 committed supporters. With no covered stand, those who did turn up even had a lengthy snow shower to deal with in the second half.
But, having accounted for Salthill in the opening day derby the previous weekend, morale was clearly high in the Mervue camp for the visit of a Cork side who overcame them in all three First Division encounters last season.
It is still incredible to see Cork, Premier Division champions six years ago, ply their trade in the second tier of Irish football, but their diminished status gives a stark reminder of the harsh economic climate which League of Ireland clubs have to operate in.
Cork expected to take all three points from this encounter and to challenge for promotion this season. They looked to be in the driving seat when they were gifted the game’s opening goal less than two minutes into the second half.
An up-field punt from the industrious Greg O’Halloran fell into the path of Mervue central defender Eric Browne in his own penalty area and, as home goalkeeper Ger Hanley called out for it, the hapless Browne forced the ball into his own net.
It was a bitter blow to a Mervue side who had soaked up plenty of Cork pressure, without much trouble, in the first half and, instead of feeling sorry for themselves, the home side set about hauling back the visitors’ lead in the rain and snow.
It was a second half performance which must have brought great satisfaction to home manager Johnny Glynn, serving a touchline ban here. Glynn rang the changes, introducing Rory Gaffney and James Casserley to the fray, as his men showed great resolve. Gaffney proved to be a key figure in their fight-back.
Good approach play from Mark Ludden and Gaffney saw inspirational captain Mike Tierney put a clear chance well wide before Tierney combined with Ludden, only for the midfielder to unleash another poor strike.
For more, read this week’s Connacht Sentinel.
Galway Bay FM News Archives
Galway has country’s largest population of young people
Date Published: 07-May-2013
Galway has a population of young people which is more than twice the national average.
According to information gathered by the Central Statistics Office, Galway’s population of 20 to 24 year olds is more than twice the national average.
The number of 25-34 year olds in Galway is also more than the norm nationally, with the two main colleges thought to be the main reason.
However immigration in Galway is much higher than in other areas at 19.4 percent, compared to the national average of 12 percent.
Galway Bay FM News Archives
Call for direct donations to city charity shops
Date Published: 07-May-2013
A city councillor is encouraging people to donate goods directly to charity shops.
It follows allegations of thefts from clothes banks in Galway and across the country in recent months.
However, cameras are in place at some clothes banks and surveillance is carried out by local authorities.
Speaking on Galway Talks, Councillor Neil McNeilis said the problem of theft from clothes banks is widespread.
Galway Bay FM News Archives
Galway ‘Park and Ride’ could become permanent
Date Published: 07-May-2013
A park ‘n’ ride scheme from Carnmore into Galway city could become a permanent service if there is public demand.
That’s according to the Chief Executive of Galway Chamber of Commerce, Michael Coyle.
The pilot scheme will begin at 7.20 next Monday morning, May 13th.
Motorists will be able to park cars at the airport carpark in Carnmore and avail of a bus transfer to Forster Street in the city.
Buses will depart every 20 minutes at peak times and every 30 minutes at offpeak times throughout the day, at a cost of 2 euro per journey.