Showing real signs of improvement, Galway WFC drew a lively WNL encounter against Wexford Youths 2-2 at Eamonn Deacy Park on Saturday.
Julie-Ann Russell capped a tremendous display with a late goal to earn a share of the spoils for Alan Murphy’s gritty team.
Galway WFC captain Russell, who illustrated her class throughout, acknowleged that it was a crafty performance from the home team. “I think it was, there was a lot of good passing, good movement off the ball, and we created a good few chances,” Russell reflected. “Eamonn Deacy Park is a joy to play on, the ground is really good so it is good for passing.
“To be honest I'm disappointed with the draw, I feel like we gave away two sloppy goals. I'm proud of the girls for fighting back in the second half.”
Russell believes significant potential exists Corribside as Galway WFC prepare for a match with Sligo Rovers at the Showgrounds this weekend.
“Definitely, the team is so young, I think I'm the oldest by a good bit, there is so much talent, so much potential,” she says. “We just need to stick together as a group, to keep going.”
The mixture of spirit and skill exhibited during the Wexford game suggests Galway WFC can make a real impact in 2022. “We want to break into that top three so getting a result - although I'm saying I'm disappointed - it is good to get a result.” Russell responds. “In the last couple of years Wexford have been quite dominant.
“That is the aim this season to break into that. For the last good few seasons we haven't. I think fifth place was the highest we have got to, so we definitely want to break in to that.”
Football continues to provide plenty of joy for Russell, who returned to Ireland last year. “I absolutely love it, I still feel young,” Russell laughs. “I feel probably as fit as I ever have, I love being back living in Galway and playing. It is a joy.
“I'm living in Barna at the moment, really enjoying it, and it is great being around my family once again, I'm loving the Galway lifestyle - just really enjoying it.”
**Listen to the full interview with Galway WFC’s Julie-Ann Russell on this week’s ‘Cian on Sport’ podcast available on Soundcloud, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
