Mervue United make the long trek to Ferrycarrig Park for a clash with Wexford Youths tomorrow aware that an away win might just be enough to earn them an Airtricity League first division promotion play-off.
It has been a particularly encouraging campaign for Johnny Glynn's Mervue, who are currently in fourth position, but with second-placed Longford Town heading for champions Athlone Town, and Waterford United, who occupy third, visiting Cobh Ramblers, the Galway outfit will feel they have sufficient momentum to finish the season with a flourish.
Five wins on the trot confirms how efficient Mervue have been since they shaded an August 30 derby with Salthill Devon. During this sequence of victories Mervue have not leaked a goal, adding further proof of their increasing solidity.
Although Mervue are highly unlikely to be operating in senior football in 2014, due to the FAI's insistence on there being only one representative team Corribside, Glynn has continued to extract disciplined displays. Last Friday's triumph over Cobh was achieved through goals from Gary Shanahan and a Stephen Walsh penalty.
Custodian Conor O'Malley was capable between the sticks, while Martin Conneely and Marc Ludden were diligent defensively. Elsewhere Shanahan, Noel Varley, Jason Molloy, and the exciting Ryan Manning contributed to another fine Mervue effort.
Mervue now know a similar level of industry must be exhibited in the southeast where Wexford have been resourceful. There had been some doubt about Wexford's Airtricity League future, but Republic of Ireland international Kevin Doyle is believed to be making a significant donation to the club which has given them a huge off-field boost.
With matches with important implications for Mervue occurring at Lissywoolen and St Colman's Park, it ought to be an interesting Friday night for Glynn's side, who can reflect on a satisfying seven months whatever happens.
Despite the strides made in the summer, Salthill will be the basement boys once more following a wretched run of eight straight losses. There had been real signs when Derek O'Brien, Jamie McGlynn, Graham Kelly, and Enda Curran were with Devon, but their departures robbed Salthill of the craft that is required.
Since they left Salthill have ailed and Harps, who too have been disappointing, are the opposition at Drom tomorrow. Salthill have not triumphed since July 26 .
