John Caulfield wary of improving Sligo Rovers ahead of Connacht Derby clash

Galway United Senior Men’s make the trip to Sligo this Saturday for a crucial Connacht Derby clash with Sligo Rovers at The Showgrounds. We sat down to speak with John Caulfield ahead of the clash in the West of Ireland this weekend.

Both sides will view the derby as a great opportunity. For John Caulfield’s men, it’s a chance to get back to winning ways after suffering their first defeat of the season last week to Shamrock Rovers. For the Bit O’Red, it’s a chance to make a statement on home soil and rally behind recent performances that, in Caulfield’s eyes, have deserved more.

“John and Ryan are doing a good job with Sligo” he said of the Rovers management team. “When you look at their performances, they haven’t quite got the results they probably deserved. Even last week, they could’ve been going in 3-2 up against Bohs, they created chances and looked lively.”

The United boss has also noted how Sligo Rovers has impressively evolved its approach, and it’s one his side must be fully prepared for.

“There’s definitely been a shift in how they play” Caulfield carefully explains. “They were more possession-based last season. Now, they mix things up a lot more. They’re playing a lot longer balls at times this year compared to last year, they’re looking to get the ball forward quicker. So we need to be aware of that with the speed they have up top especially”

As aforementioned, Sligo Rovers have pace in their team, especially with the front two of Owen Elding and former United player Francely Lomboto. The pair played and scored in a dramatic game at Dalymount Park on Friday last.

“They got two great goals last week” Caulfield said. “We’ll need to be switched on, the speed and movement they bring is something we’ve noted”

Although it’s not just open play where Sligo Rovers have improved. A new addition to their coaching staff has helped sharpen another key area of their game in comparison to last season. Jesse Acteson joined the Bit O’ Red over the off season as their official set piece coach.

“They’ve brought in a set-piece coach, and you can really see the difference,” Caulfield noted. “There’s been an awful lot of work done, both offensively and defensively. They’re much better in both boxes now and it’s something we have to be ready for”

Saturday’s game comes with all the added drama of a provincial derby, and Caulfield knows that his side won’t be alone when they step onto the pitch in The Showgrounds.

“It’s always a tough place to go” Caulfield adds. “They beat Shamrock Rovers at home earlier in the season, and it’s never an easy game. But we also know we’ll have a big travelling support behind us, they’ve been brilliant for us all year. It’s a Connacht Derby which we’re looking forward to”

🎟 Away Ticket Info

Away Tickets for the Connacht Derby are available through Sligo’s website HERE. We encourage fans are to secure their tickets in advance online.

🚌 Supporter’s Bus Info

The GUFC Co-Op are running a family friendly supporter’s bus, with seats available HERE. The bus leaves the Connacht Hotel at 4:30PM on Saturday.