WPD Preview - Galway United
Retaining the Avenir Sports All-Island Cup and making a push for the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division title was a job well done by Galway United in 2024. Now, they will want to do even better.
Phil Trill knows it won’t be easy to replicate their success or build on it, but aiming higher has to be the mantra for his Galway squad. If they were known as the sleeping giant in the League, they are very much on their feet and ready to make strides forward.
However, the retirement of Julie-Ann Russell and the departure of Jenna Slattery to Hearts leaves The Tribeswomen with two huge attacking voids to fill. The loss of their two top goalscorers – who contributed 19 League goals last season – cannot be underestimated.
There is excitement of what Emma Doherty can do as their lead striker but the Donegal native requires consistent service in order to provide the goals needed. This is where Canadian ace Amanda Smith might come in or even veteran Lynsey McKey, who continues to be a key player.
Bringing in Niamh Farrelly is a big coup. The four-times capped WNT international has experience playing in Scotland, England and Italy, as well as several successful seasons with Peamount United. She will be a strong option in the Galway midfield.
As ever, Galway have some exciting young players breaking through from their EA SPORTS LOI Academy teams, including Ireland Women’s Under-17 internationals Heather Loomes and Ava Mullins. They could play a part in what promises to be an interesting season for the Eamonn Deacy Park outfit.
