Polished goalkeeper Shay Kelly was the hero as ten man Longford Town pilfered a point in a 1-1 draw at Terryland Park.
Alan Murphy had a stoppage time penalty saved by man of the match Kelly, who ensured Longford stole a point from this critical contest.
Galway United and Longford Town both fashioned goalscoring opportunities during a thoughtful first half.
The home side bossed affairs early on with midfield trio Ciaran Foley, John Lester, and Alan Murphy demonstrating their ability. Murphy and Foley both had long range efforts gathered by Longford custodian Shay Kelly.
As the opening period evolved the midlanders improved considerably and a splendid Dave Freeman volley was expertly saved by Galway custodian Gary Rogers.
Galway regained the initiative after the interval and pinched the lead goal in the 56th minute. Alan Murphy’s precise corner located Stephen O’Flynn, who guided the sweetest of headers past Kelly’s despairing dive.
Galway ought to have added further goals, but Kelly was superb and despite the 78th minute dismissal of Pat Sullivan Longford continued to battle impressively. Dave Mooney smashed home the equaliser and Longford survived a hectic late examination.
Galway United: Rogers; James, Nootimer, Charles; O’Brien, Foley, Lester (Russell, 58), Murphy, Daveron (Glynn, 58); O’Flynn, Moran.
Longford Town: Kelly; Sullivan, Doherty (R Martin 14), Brennan, Prunty; Deegan, J Martin (Reilly, 81), Doyle, Rutherford; Freeman, Mooney.
Referee: Richie Winter (Wicklow)
