Kevin Walsh happy with Galway’s winning start in New York

Galway manager Kevin Walsh is relieved to have the first championship win under his belt as he bids to take the Tribesmen on their longest route ever to a Connacht title.

Galway have never had to play four counties to win the provincial title before but a quirk in the draw this season will see them have to take the scenic route if they are to lift the Connacht title for the first time since 2008.

Galway got their campaign off to an encouraging start in New York on Sunday when they defeated their hosts 2-18 to 0-8. They also overcame a stomach bug in the camp which forced three late changes, and Walsh was pleased with their efforts.

“It was always going to be a difficult challenge, I have been there myself a couple of times.

“We knew New York were very well organised and they have made no secret of that.

“They have also had a lot of county players and a lot of class players.”

His focus now turns to a Connacht quarter-final away to Leitrim on Sunday week, with a home semi-final against champions Mayo on offer. Outside of replays, Galway have never had to play three games to get to the final, so Walsh has been keen for the Tribesmen not to look beyond the next game.

“All of the focus was on dealing with New York, now we can look ahead to Leitrim and prepare for that. We have a good squad. Any of these guys who are wearing the maroon jersey they know it is a privilege to actually have the jersey so they will go back next week and they will work as hard as they can to try and dethrone the guys that are in there, and that is what the panel is all about,” added Walsh.