Donnellan back in training

MICHAEL DONNELLAN is back in light training, but is still weeks away from a return to playing competitive football for Galway.

The All-Ireland medallist underwent surgery on a pelvic injury three weeks ago and is following a specific programme in a bid to complete his recovery.

The news is better for former footballer of the year Ja Fallon, who damaged his shoulder in his first game of the campaign but could be back for the outing against Dublin in a fortnight.

Galway were “relieved as much as anything” with their win against All-Ireland champions Armagh in the League on Sunday, according to manager John O’Mahony.

But he believes that they will need to beat the Dubs in the last round in Parnell Park to consolidate their position in Division 1A.

“We could still need maybe eight points to survive,” he said yesterday.

“We are still not out of the woods from that point of view, but at least we are giving ourselves a chance.”

While praising his team for a “battling performance,” O’Mahony acknowledges that they still need to improve “on a lot of things”.

But overall he was in a very positive frame of mind with Galway's form to date and their work ahead of the championship. “At least you enjoy your games at this time of the year when you are winning the odd one.”

He also credited Armagh with a gutsy display in the absence of some of their key players.

“Even when we opened up a lead of six points we could not relax. Armagh have patented strong finishes. Even at half-pace they were a big threat. They certainly have a few more gears to move up.

“It’s showing how they are carrying the mantle of champions so well.”