Sligo Rovers' Gareth McElroy Sees Turning Point in Season
Sligo Rovers' Gareth McElroy believes his late equaliser at Oriel Park on Friday night will do wonders for the team's confidence, as they finally see some small fortune swing their way.
Burnfoot native McElroy netted in the 91st minute to rescue what may prove to be a vital point for Rovers come season's end, after former Sligo winger and Dundalk skipper Daryl Horgan had the Lilywhites in the lead mid-way through the opening half.
This was welcome luck and relief after the last few weeks which saw Rovers concede late on and drop vital points in games against Drogheda, Galway, Shelbourne and St Pat's.
In what was new boss Darren Purse's first away game in charge, Leitirmacaward's Carl McHugh played the full 90 minutes.
Speaking to Sligo Rovers.com following all that late theatre, McElroy says he feels the result was some small justice following a few weeks of change and uncertainty at the Showgrounds.
What happened?
"I think it's massive to be honest," McElroy said. "We really needed it. The position we're in, points are vital. Some days, it just doesn't go your way and if you can get a point, even three, then you know you've done something right. I feel like we had other chances so really, we could have won it."
Why it matters for Sligo Rovers
"We were disappointed in conceding a soft goal but we'll work to make sure that doesn't happen again," McElroy added. "Hopefully that'll see our luck turn a wee bit. That's three games unbeaten now and that gives us all confidence, the whole club."
What comes next?
Sligo Rovers are currently 10th in the Premier Division with 22 points from 26 games, 29 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers. They have scored 23 goals and conceded 43 this season, with a -20 goal difference. Their recent form has been DDLLD, with their last result being a 1-1 draw against Dundalk on July 31. They face Derry City away on August 7, who are currently 6th in the table.
The team's next fixture is against Derry City away on August 7, who are currently 6th in the table. Sligo Rovers will be looking to build on their recent form and continue their push for a top-half finish in the Premier Division.
