QuoteGalway United make the arduous trek to Oriel Park this evening for a First Division joust with Dundalk.
Stephen Lally's evolving United side registered another impressive victory over Dublin City last Friday and they will travel to County Louth injected with confidence.
Dundalk, who play on an artificial surface, have not enjoyed much success this season, but their mix of youth and experienced footballers will provide the Tribesmen with a stern examination.
United passed the Dublin City test after encountering some problems midway through the game. Yet the manner in which United began and finished the game will have filled Lally with encouragement.
A high energy start was following by a lacklustre spell either side of the break, but United responded with a highly effective finale. Two late goals from the dynamic Derek O'Brien and Eric Lavine ensured Dublin City made the homeward journey reflecting on what might have been.
Alan Gough continues to provide a reassuring presence in goal behind a defence that has been marshalled superbly by Alan Keane and Billy Clery in recent weeks. Skipper Nigel Keady should also return to action this evening, adding another formidable stopper to the unit. Ryan Casey adds a dash of class at left full and his ingenuity will be required on a testing surface this evening.
John Russell was expected to be included tonight, but a red card picked up in last Saturday's u-21 clash with Monaghan United rules the Moycullen lad out of contention. Mixie Harty is likely to continue his effective partnership with Colin Fortune, who will need to be assertive against the Lilywhites.
Fortune's consistency has been a salient feature in United's season, while the emergence of Harty as a quality midfield performer is particularly pleasing. Prior to this season Harty's versatility had seen him operate at right full, right midfield, and in the centre of the park, but Lally has repeatedly used the former Hibernians in his favoured role. Harty has accepted the responsibility and is the lead candidate to be awarded United's player of the season.
Eric Lavine is still capable of providing moments of inspiration, while Davie O'Dowd's honourable efforts have not gone unnoticed by Terryland Park regulars. The front pair will need to be clinical in Oriel Park this evening if United are to make the long trip home armed with three more valuable points.
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