RELEGATION is very much an issue now for Galway United after yesterday's defeat at Turner's Cross. In contrast the three points gained helped Cork's case immeasurably.

Any hopes Galway had of causing an upset were ruined after 31 minutes when centreback Donal Murray was sent off for a foul on Pat Morley. The referee was left with no option but to show the red card after Murray took Morley down with a late tackle from behind.

Cork led by one goal at that stage and significantly it was Morley who scored it. He struck after six minutes, turning the ball past goalkeeper Robert Forde at the second attempt.

Galway looked second best for most of the game but succeeded in creating a surprising number of quality scoring opportunities, principally because of poor play by the Cork defence. Ollie Neary Struck the crossbar early in the game and twice Donnie Farragher ran clear of the defence to confront goalkeeper Jodie Byrne but was too slow and lost the opportunity each time. John Brennan and Mark Keane were just as wasteful as the frustration of a struggling Galway grew.

Morley eased Cork's worries with a second goal after 65 minutes, following a free by Paul Wimbleton. They were well in control when Dave Hill headed their third, two minutes from time.