Athlone Town 1 Galway United 3
A dramatic evening in the midlands eventually concluded with a critical Galway United victory.
In an exciting SSE Airtricity League First Division title race, Athlone Town had landed a late blow to level courtesy of a splendid strike from substitute Andy Spain.
Suddenly United were in real bother, but substitutes Manu Dimas and Francely Lomboto responded with vital goals for the visitors.
Athlone's spirited midfielder Aaron Connolly was subsequently red carded as the match concluded with John Caulfield's charges earning the spoils.
Rob Manley's crisp 19th minute goal had steered United in front, but Athlone were industrious throughout.
Dermot Lennon and Gordon Brett's well organised side caused United problems with Spain restoring parity late on.
Under duress United stayed cool with Dimas crafting an opportunity for Lomboto, who duly obliged with a fine goal.
Dimas sealed the deal so the passionate supporters were able to make the short journey home heartened that three points had been added to the account.
Athlone Town: Velikin; Duffy (Spain, HT ), McBride, Van Geenan, Irhue (Kelly, HT ); Hickey; Lennon, Connolly, Armstrong, Oluwa; McAuley (Dolia, 78 ).
Galway United: Kearns; O’Keeffe, Finnerty, Lyons; Hemmings (Tarmey, 90 ), McCormack, Hurley, O’Reilly (Portilla, 61 ); Waweru (Dimas, 61 ); Manley (Lomboto, 61 ), Walsh (Rowe, 90 ).
Referee: Alan Patchell.
