Galway United Women have become accustomed to big games in their successful seasons at the top of domestic football. Saturday’s FAI cup semi-final away to Athlone Town feels as big as any.
There is a rivalry growing between the sides, even if the midlanders have enjoyed the best of it to date. They can expect a battle in the league and one on Saturday. The stunning league win earlier in the season should give United the confidence they might have lacked previously.
Some key American additions at the back should give them an impetus also. Their first job might be to keep compatriot Dana Scheriff in check. However, the league’s top scorer hasn’t featured in the league leader’s last two games.
It hasn’t overly hampered Athlone to date as an attacking force. They won well in their last two games and have 17 goals in their last five games.
Their only league defeat came against United in May, when a Remini Tillotson wonder strike settled it in front of the cameras.
United should have some more recent sources of confidence, having recorded a much-needed win away to Waterford last week. Again, the excellent Emma Doherty was on target. She has seven goals in her last eight games.
It keeps United in touch at the top and they finally have a couple of home games to look forward to in the coming weeks. However, the focus should be on a unique opportunity to get to the biggest game in the women’s domestic calendar for the first time. They couldn’t have asked for a harder draw to get there but they go to Athlone with a real chance.
Games with such a billing often don’t deliver as a contest but Saturday’s tie holds serious promise for fans in attendance and watching on television. It is a chance for more history for Phil Trill’s team.
Supporters' bus
Galway United Friends Co-Op are running a bus to Saturdays FAI Cup semi-final - departing from McGinns, Woodquay at 5.30pm and picking up at ATU Galway, Maldron Oranmore, Galway Plaza.
Seats can be booked by contacting Ronan Coleman at 087 6972823.
