Galwegians survived a tough test against Garryowen, winning by 10-6, to maintain pole position in their Ulster Bank League season.
In a hard-fought contest against the team in third place in division1B, Galwegians prevailed by virtue of a crucial try from prop Doran McHugh.
Garryowen had taken a 13th minute lead when outhalf Jamie Gavin kicked a penalty, but it took 44 minutes before the visitors opened their tally, not helped by an head injury to Brian Murphy.
Galwegians created chances - the best following a line break from centre Gary O'Brien, but strong Garryowen defence kept Wegians scoreless until John Cleary landed a long range penalty.
Crucially a red card to Garryowen fullback Alex Wootton for foul play allowed Galwegians to grab control and from a line-out and ensueing maul, McHugh touched down. Cleary converted to put Galwegians 10-3 up.
A penalty from Gavin reduced the arrears to four and when Galwegians lost lock Brian McClearn to the sinbin, Garryowen looked ready to pounce. However Galwegians dug deep to continue their winning form and maintain their seven-point advantage at the top of the table.
Galwegians: J Cleary; M Dever, B Murphy, G O'Brien, J Harimate; D Clarke, B Lee; J Naughton (cpt ), C Gavin, D McHugh, M Cummins, B McClearn, M Towey, J Pimm, A Ryan. Replacements: R Shaughnessy, C Conroy, P Hackett, P O'Donnell, P McCreanor.
