United boss bullish about Western derby

Date Published: 08-Jul-2010

Keith Kelly

GALWAY United manager Sean Connor has refuted suggestions that his side will travel more in hope than expectation to the north west tonight for the Connacht derby with Sligo Rovers in the Showgrounds (kick-off 7.45pm).

United have been dealt a blow for the game with the news that Stephen O’Donnell has been ruled out through suspension, and given that Rovers are particularly strong in the centre of the park with Richie Ryan and John Russell posing a real threat there, United’s hopes of a first win at the ground in 14 years don’t look particularly promising.

Connor doesn’t agree with that line of thinking, however, arguing that United showed great character to come from behind and snatch a draw against Bray Wanderers on Monday night despite not playing particularly well, and given the financial difficulties at the club.

“I never travel to a game just in hope. We showed great character to come back against Bray and equalise, and we finished the game as the stronger team. People have to remember what my players have been through with the wages thing, and for them to not let their heads drop and instead battle back for a point says a lot about them.“

Missing Stevie is a blow – I thought it was next week his suspension would kick in – and I am really annoyed as I have never managed to play Sligo Rovers with a full team. We have identified what we think are a few weaknesses with Sligo, though, and will be looking to exploit them and get a result,” Connor said.

The good news for United fans is that top scorer Anto Flood is still on the club’s books and will start against Sligo tonight, although Connor conceded the striker is likely to be gone before United’s next game, which will be at home to Shamrock Rovers on Sunday week, July 18 (kick-off 8.05pm) – that game has been moved from Friday because of Rovers’ involvement in the Europa League qualifying stages