As Glasgow City continued their European campaign, this week marked a particularly special moment for Emily Whelan.
The Ireland international returned to her home country to represent City in the UEFA Europa Cup First Qualifying Round, as we travelled to face Athlone Town in the second leg following last week’s 3–0 win at Petershill Park.
With family and friends watching from the stands and progression in Europe on the line, Emily reflected on an unforgettable trip in the below travel diary - capturing the build-up, the emotion, and the match itself, which saw us seal an impressive 3–0 victory on Irish soil.
Tuesday: MD-1
"There’s just something special about being back in Ireland.
"It always feels good to come home, but to be here because of football, representing Glasgow City, a club that’s become such a big part of my life over the last four seasons - it’s something special.
"Knowing my family and friends are going to be in the stands, watching me play in this shirt, in my home country that’s the kind of thing you dream about. This club and my journey with City means so much to me, and to share this moment with the people who’ve supported me from the very start, it's something I’ll not forget.
"It’s been a long time since I’ve played on Athlone's pitch. I think I've played on it once or twice before. This time, it feels different. I feel like a different player. I’ve grown so much since then, on and off the pitch.
"I’ve had a good feeling all week. We’ve prepared so well. Even with a three-goal advantage, we’ve never take anything for granted. We know what’s at stake. We know how hard we’ve worked to get here.
"This won’t be an easy game. It never is on the European stage, but we’re ready to fight for each other and finish the job together."
Wednesday: Matchday morning
"It was a really nice feeling to wake up back home in Ireland today.
"I feel calm, focused and ready. Even though I’m back home, the emotion of that doesn't affect how I've prepared for the game. My focus is on the game and on doing the job we came here to do.
"When I found out I’d be starting, I knew this was an opportunity I had to grasp. There’s so much quality in this team, so every place in the starting XI is earned. I knew I had to make it count."
Wednesday: Matchday evening
"I think I did that. Getting that first goal - my first of the season - was such a buzz. I wouldn't have been able to guide it into the back of the net if it wasn't for Nat setting it up on a plate for me.
"And to score in front of my family and friends back home in Ireland? Wow. My mam and dad were so proud of me.
“That goal helped settle us. From there, we grew into the game. We stuck together and stayed in control. We even took it up a level as the game came to an end. And that's when Nic came on and scored those two brilliant goals, it was the perfect ending.
"We did what we came to do. The European adventure continues."We’ve got another challenge ahead, and we’ll find out who we face next on Friday. Whoever it is, we’ll be ready."