Sligo Rovers manager John Russell has praised the impact of his substitutions following Monday evening’s dramatic Connacht derby victory over Galway United at the Showgrounds.

Francely Lomboto netted a wonderfully improvised winner in the 73rd minute, nine minutes after the former Tribesman had replaced Wilson Waweru. 

Jad Hakiki had given the Bit O’Red a half-time lead when he ran on to a beautifully weighted Owen Elding through ball. The league’s top-scorer Moses Dyer, who was later sent off, levelled the tie for Galway early in an action-packed second period before that man Lomboto popped up for a glorious winner for Russell’s side. 

A delighted Russell was enthused by not only Lomboto’s contribution but also that of returning defender Ollie Denham who was back in the match day squad having missed the last 12 games with a hernia. 

Denham, who was introduced from the bench at the same time as Lomboto in the 64th minute, was heavily involved in some last-ditch defending as both he and Reece Hutchinson pulled off sensational goal-line clearances, while Galway twice struck Sam Sargeant’s woodwork in added time at the end of the game.

“I’m delighted our subs made such an impact”, Russell told LOITV at full-time. 

“Francely has made three of four chances for himself and Ollie has cleared a few off the line. He’s been out for a few weeks, but he’s come back in and has won every ball he’s contested for. He gave us that calmness at the back that led to us winning the game. We had bodies on the line at the end and got the ball clear. 

“Francely has been a real threat for us this season and he’s getting better and better. He’s played against his former club on Monday and was chomping to come in. I said to him to go get us a winner. The first strike is unbelievable and he stays on the move and that’s what we talk about, not to be standing still. 

“The keeper pulls off a great save from the resulting header and Francely reacts again to get the finish. 

“We were happy at half-time to come in ahead but we knew we had more in us. To concede from a free-kick so early in the second half, we have to do better. 

“We have to give credit to the players though. When it went to 10 v 10, we were patient in our build up. The substitutions really made the impact we needed. Time and time again, this group keep coming back. Our resolve was incredible.” 

David Goulden