Defenders the stars for Sligo

Sligo Rovers 2 Galway United 0

Goals from defenders Shaun Holmes and Alan Keane earned Sligo their first win in six games to lift Paul Cook’s sides out of the relegation zone after this Connacht derby victory.

Sligo were in command throughout the first half and were full value for their match-winning 2-0 interval lead.

The opener came on seven minutes when Shaun Holmes beat Barry Ryan with a low drive from outside the box.

Holmes was involved again as Rovers doubled their lead on 31 minutes when his shot was deflected back to Richie Ryan whose run into the box was thwarted by Cian McBrien with Dublin referee Declan Hanney pointing to the spot.

Ex-Galway right-back Keane rifled home the spot kick, sending Ryan the wrong way.

Galway had midfielder John Russell sent off on 89 minutes for a second booking.