Duff ready for FAI Cup clash with Galway United | OneFootball

The FAI Cup takes centre stage at Tolka Park on Friday night as the Reds face Galway United in the Third Round (7:45 pm KO).

Damien Duff’s side booked their place in the last 16 by beating Bray Wanderers 1-0 in the second round at the Carlisle Grounds.

After training, the Shels boss delivered an injury update to ShelbourneFC.ie: “Sean Boyd (calf) and Dean Williams (knee) are still out, making progress, but tomorrow is too soon for both. John O’Sullivan needs a fitness test. Aside from that, we’re ready to rock.”

New signing Aiden O’Brien has trained with the squad this week, and Duff was pleased with his levels as he joins the squad straight from the PFA training camp in the UK:

“He looks really fit, has come through all the tests, trained for a few days, and is available and ready to go. His fitness level is excellent, and he’s a great addition to our squad. He’s really settled in so far.”

The Reds will be aiming to return to winning ways after going down 2-1 in the League of Ireland Premier Division last Saturday against Sligo Rovers. Duff feels it’s important to put that result into context:

“Their energy and application were there. We’ve played worse in Sligo over the few years I’ve been here and still won, but on the night, we conceded two awful goals. You can’t win games in this league giving away two goals like that. The performance can always improve. We’ve had a good training week, everyone is upbeat, and we had honest words and reflection on Monday.

“There’s a lot of good stuff in aspects of last week, and we always highlight that, but we also have to address the negatives. The one thing players want is honesty, and that’s what we provide. Monday’s feedback was helpful in shaking off the bad result. The team always responds to setbacks, so I have no doubt they will again tomorrow.”

Galway come to Tolka in fine form, and Duff knows they are a formidable foe: “They have a brilliant and highly effective style of play. We reviewed it this morning and touched on it throughout the week. We know how good they are; they’ve earned respect in this division. John and Ollie know this league better than I do; they’re as tough as anyone to face, whether at home or away. We’ve had two big scares at home, and then away we were beaten, and they fully deserved that win. We know how hard this will be; it’s one of the toughest teams in the country.”

Duff’s message to his players this week was simple: “We need to be effective at both ends of the pitch. It is a cliché, but it can ring true; in a cup match, form is not important—anything can happen. Before last week’s match, we emphasised no more gifts, but we still conceded two. Impact at the top end matters more than patterns of play and lovely football; that’s the business end of the season.”

Reminder to all supporters that season tickets are not valid for FAI Cup and a purchase is required to gain entry. Get your tickets for tomorrow’s game now at the link below.