Two moments of class from Enda Curran decided an interesting Western Hygiene Supplies premier division encounter at Fahy’s Field as Mervue United eventually defeated Corrib Celtic 4-1 on Saturday.
The hard working Annaghdown based side caused the locals some bother early on and were rewarded with a Shane Concannon goal.
Mervue, though, restored parity before the break when Johnny Hannafin pounced to score, and after the restart Noel McDonnell’s team took command. Curran, ever the opportunist, reacted smartly to net a goal from an acute angle following a splendid Shane Keogh corner kick.
Then Curran clipped a gorgeous effort from distance before Jason Molloy sealed the deal with a typically stylish strike. Since losing on the opening weekend to Salthill Devon, Mervue have responded impressively posting victories over Maree-Oranmore and Corrib Celtic.
Maree-Oranmore summoned a much improved performance when drawing 2-2 with unbeaten Salthill Devon. Ciaran Black and Conor Finnerty bagged for Maree-Oranmore. Timmy Molloy and Rory Brennan struck for Victor Collins’ Devon.
On Sunday morning Geoffrey Power starred for Corrib Rangers, who beat Colemanstown United 4-0 at the Westside. Two goals each from Power and Mikey Creane ensured Jimmy Jennings’ charges won in convincing fashion.
A Friday night away fixture against Tuam Celtic will provide a stern test for Rangers, who are hopeful about making a significant impact this season.
Loughrea edged out Tuam 2-1 with Ciaran Bane and Daryl Hayden grabbing goals. Mike Swinhoe scored for Tuam.
This weekend features a string of crucial encounters with Hibernians, managed by Galway United player Stephen Walsh, hosting West United on Saturday.
James Ryan’s first half goal ensured West overcame St Bernard’s in the FAI Junior Cup, while Shange Hulgraine and Nathan Ward netted in Hibs’ victory over Dynamo Blues.
Colemanstown face Mervue, while Corrib Celtic’s tussle with Maree-Oranmore on Sunday carries real importance. St Bernard’s have made a very encouraging start to the campaign and will relish the opportunity to play a capable Salthill side at Drom.
Loughrea and champions Athenry, who were too strong for Renmore in the Irish Cup are also in action. Seán O’Callaghan (2 ), Adam Duffy, Declan Cullen, Colm O’Donovan, and Garbhan Broughall all contributed goals in that victory for Seamie Crowe’s Athenry.
GALWAY FA PREMIER DIVISION TOP GOALSCORERS
4 – Enda Curran (Mervue United )
3 – Rory Brennan (Salthill Devon ), Ronan Caldwell (West United ), Johnny Hannafin (Mervue United ), Cathal Fahy (Athenry )
2- Darren Creaven and Timmy Molloy (Salthill Devon ), Geoffrey Power and Mikey Creane (Corrib Rangers ), Brendan Tully (Maree-Oranmore ), Gareth Lally (Colemanstown United ), Cole Connolly (Athenry ), Daryl Hayden (Loughrea ).
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES **subject to change
Friday: Tuam Celtic v Corrib Rangers (7.45pm )
Saturday: Colemanstown United v Mervue United (2pm ), Hibernians v West United (3pm )
Sunday: Corrib Celtic v Maree-Oranmore (11am ), Salthill Devon v St Bernard’s (11am ), Loughrea v Athenry (2pm )
