Play-off Preview: Galway FC -v- Shelbourne
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GALWAY FC
Galway take on Shelbourne on Friday evening in the first leg of their tension-fuelled First Division playoff match. Kick-off is set for 7.45 pm.
Having revitalised their promotion push, the Galwegians go in to the match riding the crest of a wave and with home support well and truly behind them – they're expecting a big crowd – Tommy Dunne's men will expect a win to take to Tolka Park.
Inspired by the goals of American star Jake Keegan and a fantastic team spirit, there's a real feeling around the town that this could well be their year. And if they're good enough to seize the opportunity, it's widely thought they'll cope well with Premier Division life.
First up, though, they face their biggest match of the season, so the pressure is really on.
And, speaking ahead of the big test, Dunne pinpointed just how competitive he expects it to be.
"It will be tough, Shelbourne are probably favourites, they would've had the experience of playing in the Premier Division.
"You just don't know how the game will pan out, all of our games against Shelbourne were open. Especially the low scoring ones in Galway.
"I do think that it will be tight again tomorrow. You just have to make sure that you're right in both sections of the pitch.”
SHELBOURNE
Having lost sight of eventual Champions Longford Town who have an eight point, unassailable lead, Johnny McDonnell's charges must now look west as they go in search of a massively crucial away win.
Intriguingly, The Reds have shown belief and courage on numerous occasions this season, with particular emphasis on their most recent league result which saw them battle from 2-0 down to claim a deserving 3-3 against Cobh Ramblers.
That's exactly the type of resolve McDonnell's charges will need once again on Friday as it's sure to be a tough battle, make no mistake.
That said, the away side have had a great deal of joy at Eamonn Deacy Par already this season and certainly won't fear the trip.
In all probability, Dylan Connolly will be looked to as the side's go-to guy as he's their current top scorer this season, and he should cause problems for Dunne's back-line if he's on his game.
Referee: Ray Matthews
MATCH STATS
Galway remain unbeaten in their last six matches. Ominously, though, their last home defeat came against Shelbourne back towards the beginning of August, when a Gareth Coughlan goal was all that separated them; Ray Matthews was the referee that night, too.
BETTING
Galway Evens; Draw 11/5; Shelbourne 5/2
PREDICTION
The culmination of months of preparation and hard work, both sides have a chance to put one put in the top tier. It's going to be exciting; a 2-2 draw that will suit the away side.
Galway
Injuries: Aaron McDonagh (appendix), Richard Fahy (groin)
Suspensions: None
Doubtful: None
Shelbourne
Injuries: Gregg Murray, Darren Tinnelly
Suspensions: Brian Gannon, John Sullivan
Doubtful: Willo McDonagh
