Galway United 1 St Patrick's A 1:THE LEAGUE of Ireland season has entered its last lap so remaining cool and composed is particularly relevant for Pete Mahon's St Patrick's Athletic, but they encountered a fiery Galway United at Terryland Park last night.

It has been a restorative campaign for the Saints, but last night out west it was Galway’s commendable willingness to work which thrilled the locals.

Though Galway are operating off a tiny budget, which means a small playing squad, they continue to produce crafty and committed displays.

St Patrick’s had crafted a couple of decent opportunities before they took a 12th-minute lead courtesy of a smashing Ryan Guy goal.

Stuart Byrne’s long delivery released midfielder partner Gareth O’Connor, who provided a sweet assist for Guy to nudge the visitors ahead.

An already depleted Galway were scarcely aided by the injury- enforced departure of Jamie McKenzie, but Sean Connor’s battling side remained plucky for the remainder of the opening period.

Galway could have snatched a 47th minute leveller, but Gary Rogers got down low to claw a Philip Reilly drive away to safety.

St Patrick’s had a few chances to increase their lead but Faherty and McAllister drilled efforts wide and Galway goalkeeper Barry Ryan made several saves from Guy, who was causing the home defence many problems.

Galway continued to demonstrate the defiance associated with a Connor team and they were level in the 68th minute.

Tom King smashed the ball across goal and Reilly supplied the last touch as a gutsy Galway got back on terms.

It was no less than the home side deserved for a performance full of grit and determination.

GALWAY UNITED: Ryan; Conneely, Sinnott, McKenzie (Pretson-Kelly, 36), Walsh; King, Reilly, O’Donnell, O’Brien; Molloy, Sheppard.

ST PATRICK’S ATHLETIC: Rogers; Pender, Kenna, Guthrie, Bermingham; McAllister, Byrne, O’Connor, Doyle (Cash, 78); Guy, Faherty (North, 78).

Referee: A Buttimer (Cork).