Joyce Claims Team Remained Focused Despite Challenges
Galway manager Pádraic Joyce insists his team never lost their way during the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship, even though they had a tough path through the group stages. Joyce claims team remained focused despite challenges, and that belief paid off as they secured a narrow two-point win over Down in a thrilling preliminary quarter-final in Newry. Now, with a quarter-final clash against Meath on the horizon, Joyce is shifting his focus to recovery and readiness for Croke Park.
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Recovery Key Ahead of Meath Clash
Speaking to RTÉ Sport, Joyce stressed the importance of keeping his players fresh for the upcoming challenge. “We’ll meet Tuesday and Thursday night, then play at the weekend,” he said. “Some lads need work, some don’t. The priority is getting them ready for Croke Park. We’ll face a team that’s been resting for two weeks, so we need every bit of energy.” Joyce emphasized the physical demands of the pitch at Croke Park, adding that freshness will be crucial if they are to make it to the semi-finals.
Galway Never Lost Sight of the Goal
Despite mixed results in the round-robin—losing to Dublin, drawing with Derry, and narrowly beating Armagh—Joyce said he never believed his side went “off track.” He believes those games revealed the character of his players. “We’re in the last eight, where we aimed to be. Now we push for the last four,” he stated.
Credit Given to Down’s Strong Performance
Joyce praised Down for their competitiveness throughout the match. “It was a brilliant game, high-scoring and tight. Their support and performance were top class. They’ll be a strong side in the future,” he said. Joyce also noted some struggles with Galway’s kickouts, hinting at possibly using Connor Gleeson for longer range, but commended Conor Flaherty for settling things in the closing stages.
Shane Walsh and Laverty Weigh In
Galway forward Shane Walsh, who scored 1-07, credited their tough group stage for building resilience. He highlighted the intensity of the Derry match and expressed relief at not facing them again. Walsh also noted the importance of handling momentum in modern football, especially during kickouts. Down manager Conor Laverty praised Galway as strong contenders and expressed pride in his own team’s growth and fighting spirit despite the heartbreak of defeat. “I’m gutted for the lads, but proud. They gave it their all,” he said.
