Galway's two first division representatives know a huge improvement is required over the coming weeks and months, so Mervue United will be eager to start their revival when Wexford Youths visit Fahy's Field tomorrow evening.
With only one win and two draws registered following 11 matches, it has been a disappointing opening for Mervue, who are seven points behind third from bottom Finn Harps.
Wexford Youths have made strides in this campaign, winning six and drawing one in the league so far which proves their efficiency compared to Mervue's.
Last Friday night there were glimpses of Mervue's ability at Lissywoollen, but they were still defeated by Athlone Town.
Promising defender James Casserly grabbed a late goal for Mervue and, though they forced another last-gasp chance, Athlone custodian denied Pat Hoban.
That result ensures added significance is attached to the Wexford fixture because Mervue are aware they need to eke out victories soon. Mervue’s home form must get better as they have suffered three reversals while managing just one victory and a draw.
That is something Johnny Glynn is keen to address and, even though Wexford currently sit in third position in the standings, Mervue will not fear the Slaneysiders.
Teenager Conor O'Malley made his Airtricity League of Ireland debut between the sticks in Athlone, while Michael McSweeney, Mike Elwood, and Casserly featured in a predominantly youthful defence. Etanda Nkololo's pace and Shane Keogh's capable deliveries should be able to craft chances, while Hoban's skill can cause Wexford problems. Mervue know it will be far from easy, but they have sufficient ability to avoid another defeat.
SD Galway v Longford
SD Galway travel to the midlands on Friday night to face surprise league leaders Longford Town at Flancare Park.
Tony Cousins' side has triumphed in nine of its first 11 encounters, but interestingly dropped two points when held to a stalemate at Terryland Park by SD Galway. That was SD Galway's most impressive result of an awkward campaign that has been packed with setbacks.
The latest of those happened at the Dyke Road venue when SD Galway were outfoxed by promotion favourites Limerick FC.
In an eventful opening period SD Galway and Limerick shared four goals between them with Luke McConnell and Enda Curran striking to ensure it was level at the break. After the restart, though, Limerick seized the initiative emerging convincing 5-2 victors as SD Galway were unable to climb above Mervue.
With an FAI Cup tie involving SD Galway and Mervue next on the agenda, Mannion's charges will be eager to increase their confidence levels by examining Longford. Similar to Mervue, SD Galway's panel is flecked with youngsters. Ronan Burke, Colm Horgan, Cian Fadden, Tom Bradshaw, McConnell, and Curran were all prominent during the clash with Limerick.
Away to the current standard bearers, Mannion will hope that Eric Browne, Eugene Greaney, Mixie Harty, and Mike Tierney can provide the guile and guidance that will be necessary to disrupt Longford, who are developing quickly.
