Galway hold weary Rovers to Deacy Park stalemate

Stalemate on Corribside as Galway United and Premier Division table-toppers Shamrock Rovers drew 0-0 at Eamonn Deacy Park.

It was an encounter where Galway started on the front foot and took the game to a sluggish Rovers side, who were far from their best after playing European football in Kosovo during the week. In the 11th minute, Jimmy Keohane was the first to test Ed McGinty when his close-range strike from a free kick was palmed away to safety.

From the following corner kick, Killian Brouder was unable to direct a header goalwards, before Stephen Walsh had an acrobatic effort go just wide of the target.

Just 10 minutes later, Keohane made McGinty work again when the Rovers shot-stopper produced an efficient save to keep out the long-range shot. Rovers gradually grew into the contest, but were left frustrated going into the break as the Tribesmen maintained a strong defensive shape to keep the opposition's attack at bay.

John McGovern of Rovers is tackled by Aaron Bolger

At the start of the second half, McGinty did well to gather a low Ed McCarthy strike on his second attempt, while Rob Slevin headed a free kick over the crossbar. Clear-cut chances remained at a minimum, as Stephen Bradley emptied his bench filled with quality throughout the second period, but John Caulfield’s hard-working team held firm.

The opportunity of the contest came the way of United substitute Dara McGuinness with just over ten minutes to go, but the impressive McGinty produced a stunning finger-tip save to keep the goalbound effort out.

The two teams pushed for a winner, but it wasn’t to be, as Rovers will thank their goalkeeper for helping them earn a point on the road.Next up for Galway United is an FAI Cup fixture against neighbours Salthill Devon, while Shamrock Rovers host Ballkani in the second leg of their UEFA Conference League qualifier.

Galway United: Clarke; Slevin, Brouder, Walsh (Borden 75), Cunningham; Hurley, Hickey (McGuinness 65), Keohane, McCarthy (Bolger 65), Buckley; Esua.

Shamrock Rovers: McGinty; Matthews, Lopes, Grace, Cleary; Greene (McGovern 56), Nugent (Mandroiu 65), Healy, Malley (Watts 69), O’Sullivan (Honohan 56); Noonan (Gaffney 69).Referee: Kevin O’Sullivan.

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