The 2017 season got off to a poor start for Galway United with a narrow defeat to Drogheda United, and it ended in similar fashion against Dundalk – sandwiched in between that were flashes of brilliance blended with inconsistency that ultimately saw
The 2017 season got off to a poor start for Galway United with a narrow defeat to Drogheda United, and it ended in similar fashion against Dundalk – sandwiched in between that were flashes of brilliance blended with inconsistency that ultimately saw the Tribesmen relegated on the final day.
Shane Keegan drew admirers from near and far over the course of the campaign with his eye for tactical detail, but they were ultimately undone by a United side intent on doing their best Jekyll and Hyde performance – at times, like against Dundalk in their first home league win of the season, they were fantastic, while at others (losing 4-0 against Cork City in March) their weaknesses were truly exposed.
The defensive partnership between Stephen Folan and Lee Grace, the late-season brilliance of Kevin Devaney as well as the inspiring acquisition of Eoin McCormack really gave United a shot in the arm at times, but the transfer window also saw Grace depart along with Vinny Faherty, disrupting United’s rhythm.
The final game of the season against Stephen Kenny’s Lilywhites ended in a 4-3 defeat at Eamonn Deacy Park – and it was a display that really epitomised their campaign.
Star Player: Ronan Murray
Undeniably, Murray was the best player for the Corribsiders last year, smashing in some 17 goals in 38 matches. over the course of the campaign. Providing attacking flair from the middle of the park, his set-piece abilities were behind many of the team’s positive results, and he will be sorely missed following his transfer to Dundalk.
What They Need For 2018
Lee Grace would have been a contender for United’s star player award had he not switched allegiances in the final few weeks. His departure left a gaping hole at the back that United never really recovered from. Keegan will know strengthening this position is a major priority for the forthcoming campaign in the First Division.
United will also need another experienced striker to provide ammunition in front of goal - McCormack should flourish but he will need support over the course of a gruelling season.
Realistic Targets for 2018
Make no mistake, the First Division is not an easy league to compete in and United will not have a comfortable time of it travelling to play the likes of Cabinteely, Drogheda and Finn Harps but they showed enough glimpses last term to prove that they are good enough to mix it in the upper echelon and that desire to return once again will certainly be their biggest motivation. Aiming for top spot is well within their capabilities.
A Cup run is also achievable especially if Keegan can build a squad with plenty of depth, drawing on the club's underage resources.
Best Signing Made So Far: Ryan Connolly
Connolly’s return to Galway has all the makings of being the catalyst that returns United to the top flight – and it’s a homecoming the majority of United fans are ecstatic about.
Losing him to Shamrock Rovers at the start of last term was a big blow to the overall structure and shape of the team, but his return will see confidence restored and will add extra assurance to their midfield. Connolly is undoubtedly one of the best passers in Irish football and his ability to conjure assists, thread killer balls through to the likes of McCormack in the final third and switch the play with fluidity and precision will be of huge importance.
