Galway produced an impressive performance to defeat Derry in their opening fixture of the All-Ireland series yesterday, although much of the post-match conversation has been dominated by a red card that was handed out in Salthill.
The Connacht champions would run out as 2-14 to 0-15 winners on the day, following up their provincial final victory over Mayo with another excellent display. In saying that, their task was made somewhat more straightforward after Derry were reduced to 14 men after just 20 minutes of the game.
Gareth McKinless would receive his marching orders after a poor stamp on the ankle of Galway star Damien Comer.
Big moment in Pearse Stadium as Gareth McKinless gets sent off.@AIB_GAA #TheToughest pic.twitter.com/z5RwRh9XHB
— GAAGO (@GAAGO) May 18, 2024
The Derry star has received quite a bit of criticism as a result of this incident, including from the Galway manager.
READ HERE: "No Excuse" - Andrews Rips Into Gareth McKinless For Shocking Stamp
Padraic Joyce could not 'comprehend' Gareth McKinless Galway incident
Padraic Joyce would have been massively pleased with the performance produced by his side in this game, he will be concerned about the current status of one of his star players.
Damien Comer was forced off just after half-time in the game, with his injury seemingly related to the incident involving Gareth McKinless.
Speaking to the media after the game, Joyce said it was difficult to understand the Derry man's actions on this occasion.
It's very hard to comprehend that a man would deliberately go out and try to hurt a fella.
I'm just sickened that that has happened to Damien. But look, nothing we can do about it. Punishment will come for that, no doubt.
We have to count the cost of Damien's injury and see where we go from that...
A man steps on his ankle. It's very hard to... He (Comer) thought it was okay but came off at the end. It doesn't look good but we'll see.
Galway will be hoping that the injury picked up by Comer does not prove to be too serious, with the games coming thick and fast over the coming weeks.
The Tribesmen certainly seem to be in a very good place ahead of the pivotal period of the season, with yesterday's performance cementing their status as All-Ireland contenders.
SEE ALSO: Mickey Harte Had Objection To One Part Of Derry's Red Card Incident
