An interesting FAI Cup second round clash beckons for Galway United when Cork City provides the opposition at Eamonn Deacy Park tomorrow evening (7.45pm ).
Alan Murphy’s young outfit has improved in recent weeks after the acquisitions of Killian Brouder, Stephen Christopher, and Jack Lynch, all three of whom have made an impact in United's triumphs over Collinstown and Cabinteely during the past fortnight.
United’s first round-victory over Collinstown was followed by a disciplined and determined first division showing in Stradbook against Cabinteely. That Conor Barry’s splendid goal earned United the spoils offered huge encouragement for Murphy, who now wants to cause an upset when the Leesiders’ hit the west.
“It is a lose-lose for Cork,” Murphy says. “Nobody will expect us to put it up to them, I wouldn't think. They are a premier division side with quality players, but we will take confidence from the last two weeks.
“We will plan well, we will have our homework done, and we will really look to enjoy the game. We will try to bring that intensity we can bring so we can look to our fans to show that they need to be proud of us.
“This is what we are doing week-in week-out, and that is what we are going to look for here. I just hope that the bodies come out to look for a performance from us.”
The commitment and courage United demonstrated when beating Cabinteely bodes well, according to Murphy.
"It was a really hard-working performance, they put us under a lot of pressure towards the end going very direct,” Murphy states.
“They probably had four or five up front at times with their centre backs, they put us under a lot of pressure. They have some really big men, but my lads stood up, and they were counted, to a man.
“Even the small guys were winning headers here and there. Conor Barry was winning headers over centre halves, it was great to see. It is another step in the right direction after last week. It definitely comes under the category of performance and result which is great.
“We've had a lot of performances this year and the results haven't been the by product. I think the two of them came along together, it is just three points.
“Obviously Cabinteely were really up for it, but I think we were due it. We've done well against Cabinteely this year.”
The defiant display showed what can be achieved through sheer hard graft remaining diligent throughout.
“I think we were well organised, and I think we got our tactics right,” Murphy reflects. “I think the boys executed well, they didn't panic.
“We were worthy winners, when you are winning one nil you are always going to come under pressure, especially with Cabinteely, who are really physical. I'm pleased, but it starts again, we have a huge game against Cork.
“It is a basic requirement to work hard and my guys worked hard. I've spoken about the difference how they felt after this game, there is a difference. We need to address that. It is a bit easier to work hard when you have something to hold on to and when you haven't made a bad mistake. It will happen in other games, but we will take that learning point.”
