McDermott is upbeat

GALWAY manager Bosco McDermott was in upbeat mood as he reflected on a win rather than a draw. "We were sharper, more determined. We played like a team," he said.

Football west of the Shannon is too often the butt of jokes. Not this time. Things are on the up, and, McDermott placed credit where it was due - with the players. "I thought they played really well, especially in the first half when it was important to make the most of wind advantage."

"Overall we improved immensely from the drawn match - and if we can improve at a similar rate for next Sunday's match with Leitrim we will take some beating. But I know that is going to be a tough game. They have set it as their target for the past year."

Galway centre half back Ian O'Donoghue concurred: "Leitrim will be a different proposition. But this match was worth more than any number of training sessions, you just can't beat championship action.

"I think a lot of credit must go to the forwards for the way they used the wind. It was a really good performance, not only because they took scores but also the fact that they were willing to stem any Sligo moves out of defence," said O'Donoghue.

Sligo manager P J Carroll was philosophical: "The days of a Sligo team losing by 30 points are gone and, no matter what you make of the performance, the end result is that only six points separated us at the end. I think we lost our chance the last day in Markievicz Park, but there is promise in this team. It might take three years to realise it, but there is promise."