Match Report – Galway United v Sligo Rovers

SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division

Galway United 0-1 Sligo Rovers

On an emotional evening at Eamonn Deacy Park, Galway United fell to a narrow defeat against Sligo Rovers in the Connacht Derby, last Monday night.

A header from substitute Cian Kavanagh early in the second half, was the difference in a cagey affair.

Prior to kick-off, former United assistant manager and legendary League of Ireland figure, Ollie Horgan, was remembered before kick-off.

This was the Tribesmen’s first game since the passing of their former assistant manager.

Both sides stood for a minutes applause prior to the start of the game, while Galway United club captain, Conor McCormack and Sligo Rovers captain, Will Fitzgerald, both placed wreaths on the centre circle of the pitch.

The Terryland outfit started this derby brightly and applied a lot of pressure early on. Jimmy Keohane had the first Galway chance of the half in the 19th minute, but his effort was saved by Sam Sargeant.

Rob Slevin was next to close in the 22nd minute, but his header was cleared off the line.

The away side grew into the game after this, but both sides defended well as they went in level at the break.

John Russell’s men started the second half on the front foot, and they almost took the lead in the 53rd minute, when the visitors capitalised on poor United play, however, Owen Elding saw his left footed effort saved by Brendan Clarke.

From the resulting corner though the Bit O’Red took the lead. Will Fitzgerald’s corner was met by Gaerth McElroy and his header found Kavanagh, who headed past Clarke in the United goal.

Following the concession of this goal, the hosts came close again in the 59th minute, but Dara McGuinness’ dangerous cross was collected by Sargeant.

John Caulfield made a number of attacking substitutions in the final quarter, with Jeremy Sivi in particular, looking impressive when he came on.

With just over 10 minutes remaining, the impressive Jad Hakiki forced Clarke into an excellent save from long-range.

United had a glorious chance to level matters in the 82nd minute, when Roscommon native, McGuinness found himself in behind the Sligo defence, but his effort was somehow saved by Sargeant.

The home side’s final chance of the night fell to the head of McGuinness but his effort was comfortably saved, following brilliant play by Sivi down the left flank.

Sligo Rovers defended in a very low block for the final quarter, however to their credit they defended very well to hang on for a 1-0 win at Eamonn Deacy Park.

Next up for the Tribesmen they will face Cork City, this Friday night in Eamonn Deacy Park at 7.45pm.