Galway United 1 Drogheda United 1: MATTERS CAN alter briskly in the League of Ireland. Only a few few weeks ago Galway were winning points and plaudits, but six defeats in eight exacting games ensured last night's Terryland Park encounter with Drogheda United carried deep importance.

Galway settled impressively, getting a sixth-minute goal as Vinny Faherty converted Michael McGrath’s assist.

They then spurned a regal opportunity in the 28th minute as Jay O’Shea’s venomous penalty extracted a smashing save from Paul Skinner.

Drogheda were resilient, and they were level in the 66th minute when Brian King tucked home Robbie Clarke’s inviting cross.

GALWAY UNITED: Ryan; Conneely, Breen, Guthrie, Davoren; Cooke, Russell, McGrath (Molloy, 65), O'Brien; O'Shea; Faherty.

DROGHEDA UNITED: Skinner; Chambers, Kenna, McNally (Ryan, 90), Clarke; Duffy, Shiels, Crowley, King, Martin (O'Connor, 79); Barrett.

Referee: P Sutton(Clare).