Galway down leaders Shelbourne to maintain European push

Galway United kept their European ambitions alive thanks to a 1-0 victory over league leaders Shelbourne in Eamonn Deacy Park.

Table-toppers Shelbourne arrived on Corribside with a four-point gap on Derry City, while Galway United sat three points adrift of third-place Shamrock Rovers following a defeat to the reigning top-flight champions on Monday.

FULL MATCH DETAILS

As the nightfall descended on a pristine Eamonn Deacy Park surface, it was the Tribesmen who put in a top-notch performance to pick up a valuable three points.

Following a lively start to proceedings, United took an early lead in the second minute thanks to a moment of class from right winger Jimmy Keohane.

After a fine flick-on from Patrick Hickey, who was an outlet throughout, Stephen Walsh teed up Keohane who unleashed a stunning strike past a helpless Conor Kearns to set an early tone for an energetic encounter.

The opener spurred on a confident United team and John Caulfield's side could have found themselves two to the good five minutes later.

Goalscorer Keohane almost became provider this time around as he demonstrated quality in the attacking third to supply Edward McCarthy with a clear-cut chance, but his powerful effort cannoned off the crossbar to the relief of a busy Shelbourne backline.

Damien Duff’s outfit eventually found their feet in the contest with their first opportunity arriving midway through the first half. John Martin was the quickest to react to a near post Ali Coote corner but his glanced header went just wide of the target.

Still, the Tribesmen looked effective in their press and direct attacking play. On the half hour mark Kearns had to be sharp to keep out a low effort from Hickey before the ex-Galway shot-stopper quickly reacted to