Galway facing uphill survival battle

D-DAY has dawned in every sense for embattled Galway United.

President-elect and club president Michael D Higgins will be in attendance at Terryland Park tonight but the Tribesmen will probably need something more like a miracle-worker to help them overcome a 0-2 deficit going into the second decisive leg of their Airtricity League promotion/relegation play-off against Monaghan United.

Galway, who finished bottom of the Premier Division having shipped a massive 115 goals and have long been tipped for the drop but, recalling the heartbreaking way in which they lost the play-off to Bray Wanderers last season, First Division Monaghan are certainly not counting their chickens.

Monaghan boss Roddy Collins insists: “The qualifiers are like being in a cup final and it is only half time. We have the cushion of the two goal lead but going to Terryland Park it won’t be enough, we will have to build on it to advance.

“I was satisfied with our performance in the first leg and with a bit more luck we could have extended the lead. There is a great determination in the dressing room and the lads need no motivation from me in making their final push for promotion.”

Monaghan are looking to join already promoted Cork City and Shelbourne in the Premier Division next season.

Extra time and penalties will apply if required tonight and kick off at Terryland, where a big crowd is expected, is at 7.45.