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At various points this season, both teams will have considered themselves clear of the sort of scenario likely to present itself to the sides on Saturday in RSC. At the time of going to print, the outcome of Galway United’s trip to Tallaght to take on the title chasing Shamrock Rovers on Wednesday night is unknown. But history weighs heavily against an expectation of a win that would guarantee United’s Premier status. Shamrock Rovers' loss in Derry on Sunday was a bad blow in context after a dramatic weekend of football. St Pat’s did not do United any favours either. However, it was United’s inability to beat Drogheda that has brought them into the last week needing something to avoid an unwelcome play-off. A win against Rovers, or a draw or a win in RSC will be enough owing to United’s superior goal difference. Sligo offered one other ray of light, failing to beat already relegated Cork City on Saturday. Should they succumb to Shamrock Rovers on Saturday, that would be enough for United to avoid the relegation playoff spot in and of itself, barring a catastrophe in goal difference. It means that there could be an awkward permutation in the southeast where a draw might suit both sides if Sligo are behind in Tallaght. The situation only becomes more difficult to determine when Dundalk’s difficulties are considered. Their capacity to obtain a Premier licence is currently being questioned in some quarters. Regardless, with three sides (including United ) locked on 38 points, and three even on 51 points vying for fourth place, it promises to be a gripping conclusion to the season, regardless of what transpires in the interim. The excitement might have been curtailed had Galway managed to beat Drogheda last Friday. They had their chances, but Drogheda finished strongly too. It was difficult to quibble with a draw. The side had settled in shape and personnel and therefore Dara McGuinness is likely to be a loss after his heavy collision with the boundary wall. He has brought energy and quality to the side since his mid-season signing. His counterparts up front have done plenty too to revitalize their team’s challenge. Stephen Walsh and Jimmy Keohane have come up in clutch moments. Each deserves enormous credit for their conditioning and application. Their quality is well proven. It is unclear who might replace McGuinness (if it is necessary ). Ed McCarthy came on and was taken off again. A very productive spell in maroon feels like it is petering out. It was heartening to see Greg Cunningham on the bench. Rob Slevin is a reliable option. Either might free up Bobby Burns or David Hurley to play a more advanced role. United will be firstly concerned with being solid at the back - a clean sheet would ultimately do. Defensively, they are in a much better spell. Brendan Clarke has reasserted himself well in between the sticks. His calmness and organisation, coupled with the strength and structure in front of him, can drag United over the line.
