Galway United 3

St Patrick’s Athletic 1

By Mike Rafferty at Eamonn Deacy Park

WHEN memorable moments are recalled from Eamonn Deacy Park, there is no doubt that Friday’s League of Ireland encounter with St Patrick’s Athletic will be reflected on with affection.

Though the styles were different, the early goals of Ed McCarthy and David Hurley and the superb shot stopping of goalkeeper Evan Watts were crucial factors in the success, while a subsequent headed effort from Rob Slevin gave Galway United a cushion that they held onto for the match.

It was the first time this season that United scored on three occasions and to do it all in the opening half was even more rewarding. The feel good factor from that half was certainly felt throughout the ground as manager John Caulfield remarked afterwards. “The first half we were outstanding. The crowd were on their feet at half time and gave us a standing ovation. It was our best 45 minutes of the season.”

Ironically, it was almost a repeat of when the sides met in just the second game of the season when two first half Patrick Hickey goals set up the Tribesmen for a 2-1 victory. Fielding the same starting eleven for the third game in succession, United made the perfect start with a bit of a training ground move.

Not even two minutes had elapsed when goalkeeper Watts launched a massive kick-out that landed on the edge of the Pat’s box. The control of Ed McCarthy was sublime as one touch killed the dropping ball with not a defender in sight and, in a flash, he drilled a low left footed effort past the despairing dive of Joseph Anang for a 1-0 advantage.

This was just the beginning of what seemed like a fairytale as United doubled their advantage on 11 minutes. On this occasion, the visitors rearguard were found wanting as thevision of David Hurley created a goal worthy of an even greater stage.

Goalkeeper Anang was certainly centre stage for this one as he ventured from his goal area and into the left full position to effect a clearance. His left foot delivey was poor and was chested down by Hurley.

While the ball ran away from him initally, a rebound off a Pat’s defender laid it back into his path just inside his own half and with precision finishing, Hurley launched a long range effort into the back of the visitors’ net for a 2-0 lead. Cue more madness in Terryland.

It could have got better, but neither McCarthy or Vince Borden could force home a Moses Dyer delivery shortly afterwards, while a Jeannot Esua cross just eluded the head of Patrick Hickey as Anang gathered. Dyer then dispossessed Sjoberg outside the box and after making ground, just flashed an effort over the crossbar.

Pictured: Galway United’s David Hurley celebrates his wonder goal against St Patrick’s Athletic during Friday night’s Premier Division tie at Eamonn Deacy Park. Photo: Joe O’Shaughnessy.