DUNNE: "It was a big win for us."

Galway United boss Tommy Dunne was pleased after his players secured a vital 2-1 win away to Bray Wanderers on Friday night.

Shamrock Rovers, Derry City and St Patrick’s Athletic all dropped points on Friday night and provided the Tribesmen with an opportunity to close the gap.

Two fantastic strikes from Eric Foley and Marc Ludden sealed an important win, which takes United back up to 5th in the table, and within three points of 3rd place.

Speaking after the game, Tommy Dunne said: “We were delighted to get the win because we had a couple of defeats and you’ve got to make sure that you don’t allow the defeats to keep rolling on.

“Derry City were in Cork, Rovers were possibly expected to win in Wexford and didn’t, but it just shows you that anybody can beat anybody in this League. I believe Longford were very unlucky not to beat Pats also.

“It’s a tough league, there’s a lot of even matches, tonight we were good at different times, at other times we were a bit sloppy. But the most important thing was the three points.”

United were without a number of influential players but Dunne hailed his players and he insists there is a high level of expectancy within the squad.

“We’re expecting players that come in to step up to the mark,” Dunne explained.

“I thought Alex Byrne and Eric Foley were very good in the middle. I though Ruairi Keating got better as the game wore on and Kevin Devaney had a good performance too. In general there was a lot of steady Eddie performances. There are a few areas we need to improve on, but there’s a lot of positives.

“Bray had a sticky start between injuries and different circumstances. They’ve got a decent group that will give anybody a game and you can see they’re improving.”

United’s focus changes to the FAI Cup on Friday night with an away match against Bohemians. Dunne is relishing another big game.

“It’s the tie of the round,” Dunne said.

“Dalymount is a tough place to go, but it’s the Cup and we’re looking forward to it. We’ll give it everything.”