Galway United 1-0 Finn Harps
Tommy Dunne’s improving Galway United side claimed another encouraging SSE Airtricity League Premier Division win at Eamonn Deacy Park.
A poor match was ultimately decided by a second half goal from Vinny Faherty as Galway claimed a third home win of the season.
Finn Harps' determined display ensured Galway encountered plenty of bother throughout, but the Tribesmen’s perseverance was rewarded.
Galway took the lead in the 59th minute when Faherty guided home a fine Kevin Devaney cross and Harps couldn’t force an equaliser.
In the sixth minute Galway striker Faherty just failed to connect with a Ryan Connolly free-kick as the Tribesmen started with real intent.
Harps custodian Richard Brush had to be alert in the 17th minute when gathering a shot from the lively Devaney.
Ollie Horgan’s visitors though were defending in resolute fashion, thwarting a Galway outfit, who initially were being prompted by Ryan Connolly’s clever midfield passing.
Harps came close themselves in the 34th minute, but Ryan Curran was unable to steer Ethan Boyle’s cross on target.
The Donegal side were content to depart on terms following a poor first half that was short on suspense and drama.
After the restart Harps continued to frustrate the locals, who were fortunate to survive a real scare in the 57th minute.
Adam Hanlon’s left wing cross was met by a glancing Dave Scully header, but the ball crept inches over the bar.
Galway hit the front on 59 when Faherty prodded the ball home at the back post following an inviting Devaney cross.
Killian Cantwell headed a Devaney corner wide in the 67th minute as Galway were eager to add to their account.
Horgan introduced a string of substitutes, including veteran striker Kevin McHugh, but Galway closed out the deal with the minimum of fuss.
Galway United: Conor Winn; Colm Horgan, Paul Sinnott, Kilian Cantwell, Stephen Walsh; Gary Shanahan, John Sullivan, Ryan Connolly, Kevin Devaney; Enda Curran (Padraic Cunningham, 89), Vinny Faherty.
Subs not used: Kevin Horgan, Marc Ludden, Stephen Folan, Eric Foley, Ruairi Keating, Conor Melody.
Finn Harps: Richard Brush; Damien McNulty, Packie Mailey, Keith Cowan, Ciaran Coll; Ryan Curran, Gareth Harkin, Ethan Boyle, Tony McNamee (Kevin McHugh, 70), Adam Hanlon (Liam Flatley, 84); Dave Scully (Sean Houston, 70).
Subs not used: Ciaran Gallagher, Michael Funston, Matthew Crossan, Tommy McMonagle.
Referee: Jim McKell (Tipperary).
