Galway back with a bang to beat Dundalk at Oriel

Galway United claimed their first Premier Division win since 2017 as first half goals from Ed McCarthy and Aodh Dervin saw them put Dundalk to the sword at Oriel Park.

After six seasons in the First Division, they have already equalled their number of away wins from that relegation campaign having outclassed and outfought Dundalk for long periods of this game.

Galway had only ever won once in their history in the top flight at Oriel Park back in March 1987 but this victory will give John Caulfield’s side confidence that they can compete at his level having dominated the First Division last season.

They frustrated Stephen O’Donnell’s side for long periods with the Lilywhites looking a shadow of the side which had claimed a point away to champions Shamrock Rovers on the opening night.

While Galway could equally have added to their tally to match last September’s 4-0 FAI Cup quarter-final humbling of the Louth men at Eamonn Deacy Park, this was a deserved victory following on from their narrow opening day defeat at home to St Patrick’s Athletic.

The Tribesmen are back and, on this evidence, more than capable of coping with life in the top tier.

The first chance fell the home side’s way on seven minutes when Robbie Benson burst through before getting a shot away after an awkward bounce had deceived Rob Slevin.

Two minutes later the visitors had their first opening when Colm Horgan’s ball over the top played Karl O’Sullivan in behind but Mayowa Animasahun did well to get back to ensure his effort in the end was tamely at George Shelvey.

Galway then hit the front in the 10th minute with what was a brilliant worked goal. Dervin’s ball split the Dundalk defence by playing David Hurley in on the right with his cross then bundled in at