A winnable game it certainly is, but that simply adds to Galway's pressure on Sunday. A fortnight ago when Kilkenny thumped the maroons on a grim afternoon at Pearse Stadium, Galway were forced to deal with the usual pessimism that accompanies such a hiding.
The trip to Abu Dhabi has aided the cleansing process, and there ought to be a kick in the homesters this weekend. If there isn't the partisans will have a right to be worried, but for now an improvement in performance levels would be satisfactory.
Every journey commences with a first step, and Galway's comeback really starts against Limerick. It is in this type of environment that signs of promise must be produced. While it would be a fillip Galway don't require a NHL title, all that is needed is proof that a gallop can be raised. For a string of exacting defeats can have negative implications, and history shows that Galway can struggle when optimism and confidence are low.
Following the recent reversals John McIntyre has suggested that surgery may be carried out on the panel, so much interest surrounds who will form the starting XV when Justin McCarthy's charges arrive in Salthill. Injuries and club commitments ensure Galway have yet to field a particularly strong team in 2009.
McCarthy is also in the transitional mode with Limerick as he makes assessments before the white heat of Munster Championship fray. That is why Limerick will intend to be gritty and resourceful, so Galway will have to match their endeavour.
