Galway manager Kevin Walsh blamed refereeing decisions for his side’s All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Dublin at Croke Park.
The Tribesmen were looking to beat their opponents in the championship for the first time in 84 years but came up short as they were defeated 1-24 to 2-12.
Walsh’s men were trailing 1-9 to 1-7 at the break and needed a bright start to the second half to boost their chances of pulling off an historic victory.
But Galway failed to build on their encouraging first half showing as they were left to reflect on a defeat. And Walsh felt his side were unfortunate to ultimately lose out.
“I think it extended beyond the first half. I think it would be quite unfair to leave it at that,” Walsh told OTB.
“We should have been coming in at half time up a few points for certain. That didn’t happen maybe because of the inexperience and we probably missed too much.
“Obviously, we had to chase the game after half time and one or two decisions were a bit harsh to be honest. It certainly put us on the back foot.
“I don’t want to get into it. But there were certainly one or two that were soft and we can’t afford that – particularly when we’re losing – because Dublin can see a game out very easily.”
Walsh responded to suggestions that the officials did not have a bearing on the game given the final score-line. But Walsh disagreed.
“You asked me about momentum so I’m giving you an answer,” Walsh added.
“If something like that happens – particularly when you’re chasing a game – it can have an impact. I’m not using that as an excuse but I’m saying that our chances in the first half needed to be taken for us to take a game to Dublin who are going for four in a row.
“They’re highly experienced and a top quality side. All we wanted was for our guys to be competitive today and they were.
“It’s experience for our guys. They’re 24 or 25 on average and it’s the first time they’ve stepped on those red carpets and it’s not an easy place to be.”
Walsh also reflected on a memorable year for the Tribesmen and feels his players will benefit from the experience.
“When you look back on the year – a lot of milestones have been hit,” Walsh added.
Winning a quarter-final in Croke Park, beating Kerry, top of the league, league final – beating Mayo three times in a row – and retaining the Connacht title.”
James Hopper
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