Getting the basics right is what will ensure Galway’s graph continues to rise, says defender Gareth Bradshaw.
Sunday’s win over Monaghan saw them put in an improved performance following the defeat to Dublin in Croke Park.
After losing to the All-Ireland champions at the last-four stage in 2018, Bradshaw’s team-mate Declan Kyne has spoken about All-Ireland semi-finals involving Dublin being taken out of GAA HQ because the venue is an advantage to them.
However, the Moycullen man places more emphasis on Galway’s performance.
“I think it’s a matter of getting the basics right. No matter if you are in Croke Park, you are down in Killarney, if up are up in Inniskeen, you have got to get the basics right, your basic handling, the conversion rates, your kick passes succession rate all has to be up. And I suppose we were a lot better than we were last Saturday evening.
“We came out after half-time (v Dublin) and we were in a good position at half-time. I think we had maybe 12 or 14 turnovers in the second half.
"We didn’t put our shoulder to the wheel when the game was in the balance. Basic stuff, there is no rocket science behind it but you have to get it right every day you go out, or you will be shown up.”
Naturally after the win against Monaghan, Bradshaw claimed the stats read more in Galway’s favour. “If you look at the stats in the first half, I’d say we could have had another 2-5 on the board, so it wasn't a case of us lying bad.
"Our conversion rates probably weren't as high as they should have been. The stats will tell the tale when you do see our conversion rate was high in the second half. We were well set up and I suppose we fought for every ball and that’s all you can ask.”
Two wins from three games is a decent return for a Galway panel ravaged by injuries and unavailability but Bradshaw reports camaraderie in the group to be high. They welcome high-flying Kerry to Tuam on Sunday week.
"It’s giving lads great opportunities for the lads that are out injured and slowly but surely our squad will be building back up.”
