Galway travel to Ulster to face Armagh this weekend in search of their first league win of the season.
Pádraig Joyce's men failed to get off to a winning start when they lost to Mayo at Pearse Stadium last Sunday. It was a disappointing start for the Tribesmen, but they can be encouraged by their second-half response to being 11-points down.
By the 49th minute Mayo led 2-17 to 0-12. Galway were missing a host of established names, namely John Maher, Paul Conroy, Cillian McDaid, Cein D’Arcy and Matthew Tierney. Still, they sent out a reminder of their resilience and attacking quality when Robert Finnerty pointed a brace before substitute Shane McGrath slipped in for a neat, side-footed goal that altered the momentum of the contest.
Although Cian McHale found the net on 61 minutes to restore a seven-point cushion, Galway refused to yield. Fionn McDonagh struck the game’s final goal and later added points as the hosts poured forward in search of a dramatic finale. Ciarán Mulhern floated over a late two-pointer to further narrow the gap, while Mayo were forced into a series of last-ditch blocks and clearances.
Mayo had too much in the end but they were made work for it. On another day, the Tribesmen make more of their numerous goal opportunities.
This weekend's opponents promise another tough contest for Joyce's side. Armagh, shooting 1-25 from play, got their campaign off to a flying start with a comfortable win over Monaghan.
Kieran McGeeney's men made light work of their Ulster counterparts with 11 different players getting on the scoresheet. Conor Turbitt led the way for his side with 0-6, while Andrew Murnin shot 1-3.
Throw-in at the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds is this Saturday, January 31 at 5pm.
