AIRTRICITY LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Galway 0 Sligo Rovers 0:A DEFIANT defensive performance ensured Galway United a share of the spoils with Sligo Rovers at Terryland Park.
Though Galway were severely hampered by injuries they approached the contest with a work ethic that ensured they remained competitive.
Sligo created more chances during the first half, but Galway defended with determination.
A rare lapse from Jamie McKenzie presented Sligo with the clearest chance in the half in the 27th minute as Joseph Ndo raced clear, but the former Cameroon international’s effort struck the woodwork.
Galway went close themselves moments later as Tom King and Rhys Meynell combined to release Cian McBrien, who shot wide in a crowded area.
After the restart Sligo remained on top, and in the third quarter they repeatedly tested Galway goalkeeper Barry Ryan.
In the 49th minute a venomous Richie Ryan effort was saved by Ryan, then on 64 minutes Matthew Blinkhorn forced the keeper to make an equally important stop.
Substitute Pádraig Amond went close soon afterwards as Ryan kept Galway in contention, but Sligo continued to press forward.
Galway’s impressive central defensive duo Jamie McKenzie and Paul Synott curbed Blinkhorn’s influence and the home side held out to secure an encouraging point.
GALWAY UNITED:Barry Ryan; Conneely, Synott, McKenzie, Creaney; McBrien, Heary, Curran, Meynell; King (Molloy, 90 mins), Sheppard.
SLIGO ROVERS:Brush; Keane, Peers, Foran, Ventre; McCabe (Amond, 62 mins), O'Grady, Ryan, Doyle (Dillon, 75 mins); Ndo; Blinkhorn
Referee: A Kelly(Cork).
