Having fought valiantly on three fronts, it is now a simple proposition for Galway United Women for the rest of the season. There are eight games to go in the league and they need to be near perfect to keep league leaders Athlone to account.
They proved again that they are a match for the rivals in a contest last Saturday, only bowing out on penalties in the FAI Cup semi-final. They conceded a somewhat disappointing goal and scored an encouraging one in an impressive display to take the champions all the way.
United need to bounce back from that disappointment as they make a long-awaited return to Eamonn Deacy Park on Saturday evening. They entertain Cork where only a win will suffice to maintain more than a passing interest in the title.
Cork remain rooted to the bottom of the league, having registered just one win in the league. They haven’t taken a point from the top seven. They did reach a cup semi–final, before suffering a heavy 6-0 loss at home to Shels. They had squeaked past non-league Cork side, Douglas Hall, in the quarter-finals.
United should have confidence despite last week’s knock. They are returning home, where they enjoyed a blistering start to the season. They have strengthened their defence with the arrivals of Ella Raimondi and Jade Rehberger who have both played full parts in their last games.
They were without Emma Doherty last time out, which was a big blow heightened by the continued unavailability of Ceola Bergin. They will be delighted to welcome Doherty back.
She can make a difference on Saturday and beyond. The United support could also make a difference. Phil Trill’s team must have missed the connection and backing they get in Eamonn Deacy Park on Saturday evenings.
With three of their next four games winnable games at home, the move could be coming at just the right time to propel United back into the thick of the title race.
