Alan Matthews' Drogheda United claimed a vital victory at Terryland Park as the Boynesiders moved into eighth place in the Premier League table.

 

Conor Kenna and Jamie Duffy struck first half goals for Alan Matthews' improving side, who were always in the ascendancy on the banks of the Corrib

 

There was plenty to admire in the enthusiasm of both sides early on as opportunities were crafted at either end.

 

Six minutes in Drogheda were unfortunate not to nick the lead as Brendan McGill smashed a right footed effort off the crossbar following an intelligent Ross Gaynor delivery.

 

Galway, though, were contributing to a decent start, and promising young striker Jason Molloy went close with a curling 17th minute shot.

 

Drogheda are clearly an improving outfit, and with James Chambers' set piece threat they will always craft chances.

 

A Chambers free-kick elicited panic in the Galway defence, and the ball eventually spilled for Conor Kenna, who was denied by a Barry Ryan save.

 

Despite the concession Galway did respond as Garry Breen and Alan Murphy went close to netting a leveller before Drogheda extended their advantage in the 45th minute.

 

Brendan McGill's corner wasn't cleared adequately by Jason Molloy, and Chambers centred for Jamie Duffy, who provided the necessary close range finish.

 

Three minutes after the restart Vinny Faherty was denied by a splendid Steve Williams save as Galway sought to narrow the deficit.

 

Galway boss Ian Foster made three changes in an attempt to find a way back into the game, but the Drogs weren't bothered. Paul Shiels continued to rule the midfield exchanges as Drogheda cruised to a win that brings them within five points of Galway.

 

Galway United: Ryan; Conneely, Breen, Guthrie, O'Toole (O'Brien, 46); Cooke (Fitzgerald, 46), Kelly, Murphy, Davoren; Molloy (Green, 70), Faherty.

 

Drogheda United: Williams; Chambers, Kenna, McNally, Clarke; B McGill, E McGill, Shiels, Gaynor (King, 81); Duffy (Farrell, 90), Bates (Martin, 70).

 

Referee: P Sutton (Clare).