Galway United -v- St Patrick's Athletic

• Alan Dooley
• Thu, Apr 30 2009


For all the optimism and despair from both sets of fans that followed Galway Utd's hammering of St Pat's on the opening night, only goal difference now separates the two sides and Friday night's return encounter at Terryland Park is a vital game in truly assessing both side's merits for the remainder of the season.

Last six games
Galway United have only recorded one win in their last six games, away to Drogheda, and need to get their home form back on a positive note following losses to Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers which drained some of the early enthusiasm from the natives. A battling performance last time out against Cork City failed to produce what would have been a merited point, but Ian Foster's side must now start grinding out results to avoid slipping back down the table.
Jeff Kenna's side rallied after the 3-0 opening defeat to record three wins in a row, and have a point more from their last six, coming from two home wins over Dundalk and Drogheda. Earlier away wins over Cork and Sligo were gained on the back of clean sheets and nicking a goal. With Galway struggling to find the net at home, a similar event could well be the most likely occurrence.

Kenna's Return
A saviour one minute, pariah the next, Jeff Kenna will be eager to silence those in the West who felt his decision to leave was both poorly timed and executed. "Judas" signs were displayed by travelling Galwegians at Inchicore, but home fans would be far better off now concentrating on creating an atmosphere of support for their own manager and players rather than spewing vitriol and hate at one they previously adored. Crowds have been noticeably down at Terryland this year, so the effort to create a vocal backing for the team needs to be stronger. A torrent of abuse will have no effect on a seasoned Premier League campaigner, so it will be interesting to note whether he gets the full treatment or silent indifference.

Team News
John Lester was a regular at Terryland last year but will not feature for the visitors after having excess fluid removed from his knee. He joins Gary Dempsey, Mark Leech, Bobby Ryan, and Gints Friemanis on the injury list while Glen Fitzpatrick remains sidelined following his unexplained collapse before the Bohemians' game. Jason Gavin must serve an automatic suspension following his post-match red card last week and will not start for the first time this season.
Galway were depleted last week and had to call on three of their A championship side to fill the bench. The situation has improved somewhat this week with the return of Sean Kelly,Cian McBrien, and Ger Hanley to the squad. Alan Murphy and Mark O'Toole are still rated as doubtful for tomorrow night's clash, while Shane Fitzgerald is still a few weeks from competitive action and Niall Walsh and Paul Sinnott round off the injury list at present.