Galway United Women will host Shelbourne in the FAI Cup this Saturday after reaching the Avenir Sports All-Island Cup final last Wednesday night.
Despite dominating for large chunks of a feisty encounter with Wexford, Phil Trill’s side needed penalties to overcome their tough opponents.
Julie-Ann Russell dazzled throughout and was at the heart of everything positive about United’s play. The opener eventually arrived. Kate Thompson announced her return to the team with a well-taken goal after more magic from Russell on the left.
Jamie Erickson doubled the lead in the 51st minute after a clever corner from Lucy Jane Grant found the Canadian at the front post. A clever glancing header made it 2-0.
There were chances to put the game out of sight. Russell seemed to make it to the by-line at will but a series of crosses and cutbacks couldn’t be converted.
Wexford pounced on the opportunity. Kylie Murphy pulled one back in the 66th minute before former Ireland international Rianna Jarrett sent the game to penalties with an 87th minute equaliser.
Wexford had the momentum and an early advantage when Amanda Smith missed the opening spot-kick. However, Jessica Berlin stood tall in the Galway goal saving two penalties to swing the tide in favour of her side. Thompson, Aislinn Meaney and Grant all converted before Erickson sent her side through to the final with an assured penalty.
It was welcome relief for a side whose season seemed in trouble after three consecutive league defeats. They will now face Shamrock Rovers in the final in Tallaght, just a week after playing them in the league.
Before all of that is a huge tie with Shelbourne this Saturday. United lost 1-0 in Tolka the last time the sides faced each other. Phil Trill was bullish after that game that United were more than a match for the league leaders, and that theory will be put to the test this weekend.
After missing Therese Kinnevey, Aoibheann Costello and Jenna Slattery against Wexford, Trill and staff will be hopeful for a fuller deck from which to pick this time out. Grant and Amy Madden deputised well in the full-back positions while Emma Duffy made a few telling interventions from midfield.
These performances spoke to the squad dynamic that the United staff have tried hard to cultivate. It will be tested again against Shels. However, should United pull out a famous victory, the competition could open up nicely as this is one of three all-Premier ties.
United have already proven their cup prowess, a run in the FAI Cup could really capture the imagination of the Galway sporting public.
