GALWAY UNITED 0 DUNDALK 3
Demanding challenges are arriving thick and fast for Galway United ahead of the SSE Airtricity League season.
Stephen O'Donnell's outfit controlled the opening period against an experimental United XI. That is when the damage was down with Dundalk offering signs of promise before the new campaign.
The stylish visitors hit the front in the sixth minute courtesy of a goal from the influential Paul Doyle.
Providing plenty of subtlety in the centre of the park, Doyle, the former Sligo Rovers and UCD midfielder was prominent for Dundalk.
A second was added when Darragh Leahy appeared to get the final touch in a crowded area.
Another effective contributor for Dundalk, Joe Adams, clipped a delightful third as the visitors departed at the break armed with a significant advantage.
In the second half United improved considerably with Shane Doherty and Wilson Waweru going close.
United's next friendly assignment is on Saturday evening against Shamrock Rovers at Fahy's Field (6pm ).