Joyce Had A Blunt Reply After Shane Walsh Paid Back His Faith In Galway's Lazarus-Like Win

Galway salvaged their season with a thrilling 2-22 to 0-27 over their old nemesis Armagh on Saturday evening in Cavan.

The result means Galway finish third in the Group of Death and will be away in the preliminary quarterfinal round next week. Dublin defeated Derry in Newry and finish second based on head-to-head on Galway.

It all seemed incredibly unlikely at halftime for Galway. They trailed by eight at the break and missed two first-half penalties. There was a very real possibility that Derry would pip them on points difference and a season that promised so much was about to derail.

However, Galway unleashed a second half for the ages, spurred on by goals from John Maher and Matthew Tierney.

Shane Walsh kicked his ninth point of the game in added time to break the deadlock and Galway now look like one of the most dangerous sides in the competition.

The Kilmacud Crokes forward was selected as man of the match in what was his best performance since the League. He kicked six from play and shook off that forgettable form that has dogged him throughout Galway's last few matches.

His manager Padráic Joyce had a fascinating comment about Walsh's form when interviewed on GAA+ after the game. Asked about Walsh's mercurial streak and his outstanding performance on Saturday, Joyce was pretty direct with his thoughts on his player.

It's a long time coming to be honest.

He added.

He's great. He was outstanding. He took on the responsibilty. He missed a few shots as well. Look, he was outstanding. To a man, they all stood up, They were fighting for their lives really... He just needs to keep it going now and get another week of training under his belt.

Joyce wouldn't take any credit for Galway's turnaround but he did say that 'harsh words' were spoken at the break.

It's not down to what I do or say...There was a few harsh words said, but ultimately the players had to come out and deliver.

Walsh, however, gave all the credit to his manager when interviewed after the game.

"In fairness to Padráic, he's been the driver. Last Tuesday week, that meeting we had together, there were honest conversations that were had with each other. He's just been a driving force there, to be honest. His winning mentality just shines through as a manager. Even at halftime again, just encouraging us on.

The two shared a hug after the fulltime whistle. Sometimes, tough love goes a long way.