GALWAY UNITED 0-1 DROGHEDA UNITED:ON A grim grey evening by the banks of the Corrib, Galway United's sharp decline continued. Though there was plenty to admire in the enthusiasm they showed, another traumatic week concluded with defeat.

though Drogheda United entered the contest 14 points off table toppers Bohemians, a quiet confidence still courses through the Boynesiders system.

The title won't be relinquished without resistance. This hour and a half offered ample evidence of Drogheda's commitment and character.

Despite being ravaged by injuries, there still was no shortage of experience in Drogheda's revamped starting XI.

Still it was Galway's youthful enthusiasm that provided the first half encouragement. Midfielders Gary Deegan and John Russell were purposeful, while winger Jay O'Shea also offered a threat on the right flank.

It was the former Republic of Ireland under-19 international, O'Shea, who extracted a smashing fingertip save from Jamie Ewings in the 39th minute as Galway looked for a goal that would have reflected their early supremacy.

That it didn't arrive merely added to the gloom when Drogheda pinched the opening goal in the 57th minute.

Jason Gavin lofted the ball deep into Galway territory and Sami Ristilla fashioned the opportunity in a densely populated area for Ollie Cahill, who duly obliged with a precise finish.

In the dying minutes, substitute Derek Glynn and John Russell could have restored parity, but Drogheda survived the late bombardment.

GALWAY UNITED:Rogers; Keane (Conneely, 85 mins), Fitzgerald, Lester, Nootimer; O'Shea, Deegan, Russell, O'Brien; Leech, Faherty (Glynn, 68 mins).

DROGHEDA UNITED:Ewings; Shelley (Tambouras, 85 mins), Gavin, Maher, Kendrick; O'Keefe, Byrne, Hughes, Cahill; Ristilla, Bates.

Referee:A Kelly (Cork).