Galway United delivered a purposeful performance, as unexpected as it was stylish, to claim a share of the spoils against the title challengers.
The opening period was loaded with excitement as both teams contributed to a high tempo start.
Amazingly it was a depleted Galway who made the early running as Mark Leech and Jay O’Shea both went close before Derek O’Brien netted a 24th minute goal.
Vinny Faherty created the opportunity for O’Brien, who delivered a crisp finish to steer Galway ahead.
But the advantage was short-lived as Pats were level within 90 seconds as Mark Quigley grabbed an opportunistic equaliser.
Ryan Guy’s cross found Quigley, who drilled a left-footed shot to the roof of Gary Rogers’ net.
In the 33rd minute Quigley pounced again when glancing home Bobby Ryan’s precise cross and suddenly the Supersaints were armed with the lead. It was particularly tough on Galway, who had contributed immensely to a smashing first half.
It was a stirring contest and Galway recovered despite falling behind, netting a goal of remarkable quality to level in the 58th minute.
Seamus Conneeley, Regillio Nootimer, John Russell, and O’Brien were all involved before Faherty showed admirable composure to poke the ball over the line.
Thereafter Galway dictated the game as the excellent Gary Deegan and Leech came close to hitting the winner.
Galway United: Rogers; Conneeley, Fitzgerald, Charles, Nootimer; O’Shea, Deegan, Russell, O’Brien; Leech, Faherty.
St Patrick’s Athletic: Barry Ryan; Brennan, Partridge, Harris, Byrne; Bobby Ryan, Dempsey, Ndo (Lynch, 65), Guy; Quigley, O’Neill (Fitzpatrick, 73).
Referee: D McKeon (Dublin).
