STEPHEN GLENNON

NEWLY promoted Salthill Devon and Mervue United travel to Finn Harps and Athlone Town on Friday and Saturday evening respectively, with both city clubs looking to secure their first wins of the season.

Although Salthill Devon were impressive in their Airtricity First Division season opener against Athlone Town in Drom Soccer Complex last weekend, they were unable to secure a League point after Austin Skelly netted the winning goal for the visitors early in the contest.

For the fledging League of Ireland side – making their debut at this level – it was disappointing and frustrating, and head coach Emlyn Long believes that his charges will have to adapt fast if they are to survive in this division.

“I was happy with the performance, but I think in games like that, when we have so much of the ball, and we are in control for large periods, we have to learn quite quickly to be able to take something out of the game,” says Long. “So, from that aspect, it was disappointing.”

Indeed, taking points at home will be vital if Salthill Devon are going to hold their own in the First Division, because with trips to the likes of Derry City, Shelbourne and revamped Cork City Foras Co-op, League points on the road for the newly promoted side could become as scarce as hen’s teeth.

Consequently, the trip to Ballybofey this Friday (8pm) presents the first big test for Long’s outfit. “Ballybofey is always a tough place to go to,” continues the Salthill manager. “Finn Harps were a bit unlucky to lose to Longford last weekend (3-2); I think Longford scored their three goals over a 15 to 20 minute period, which was their purple match.

“Finn Harps, though, are a good side, and they have added a few players to their squad from last season. That said, we are not just going up there to give it a go. We are going up there to try to win all three points.”

For more, read this week's Galway City Tribune.