Mervue United head for Gortakeegan tomorrow evening charged with the task of lowering the colours of high-flying Monaghan United.
The home team, under the stewardship of Roddy Collins, will be intent on gaining vengeance having lost to the Galwegians earlier this season.
Last Friday Mervue failed to build on a decent sequence of performances when some poor defending in the second half saw them lose 2-1 to Athlone Town. Those present were fortunate enough to witness a wonder strike from Rory Gaffney in the first period. This majestic effort from the Tuam man saw him control the ball at the arc of the centre cicle and then unleash a venomous drive that flew all the way past impressive Town debutant goalie Ger Callopy.
However defensive frailties were twice exposed in the second period and no dividend accrued for the homesters.
It was a pity Mervue who, in both instances, had the requisite numbers back in their own box, should be punished so severely. Perhaps the weight of expectation affected the home side, but a trip to Monaghan will certainly prime them for a big response.
Great ground has been made by Johnny Glynn's lads this season. Their thoughtful measured play is a pleasure to watch and it will be of the greatest interest to see their response tomorrow. Right back David O Brien won strong acclaim for a considerable display in defence and later in midfield, and that kind of spirit in testing circumstances will bring due rewards.
Salthill Devon put in a fine shift against Cork City and a repeat of same should see some gains made when Paul McGee's lads host Longford Town in Drom on Saturday evening. Tony Cousins' Longford team side have nestled comfortably in the top half of the table with the Dubliner assembling a very promising squad. The most notable threat to the home cause is striker Don Cowan, who signed from Shamrock Rovers. His pace must be keenly marshalled by the home defence. Other key players for Longford include Mark Salmon (the scorer of a brace in the win against Harps last Saturday ) and defenders Des Hope and Chris Deans.
That stated, Salthill have begun to suggest that their recent disappointing run can be ended. Paddy Quinlan, Paul Smith and James Whelan are most able performers. The Devon lads have every ambition in ensuring there is something for Galwegians to celebrate at the end of a testing weekend for Galway soccer clubs.
Mervue United AGM
Mervue United will hold its annual general meeting next Monday ( July 18 ) at 8pm in the clubhouse at Fahy’s Field. The meeting will be preceded by Mass for all club deceased members at 7.30pm.
