Scotland Women v Ukraine Women

HAMPDEN PARK / FRIDAY 26, NOVEMBER 2021 SCOTLAND v UKRAINE / 14
THE TEAM
WAS STARTING
OFF IN THE
CHAMPIONSHIP
BUT I COULDN’T
PASS UP ON THE
OPPORTUNITY,
IT WAS A
CHALLENGE
I REALLY WANTED
TO BE PART OF
probably should have done
earlier, because we had such a
good team. There was a great
atmosphere in the group and
every cup win was special.
“I just wish we’d been able to do
the same in the league, but you
have to give Glasgow City all the
credit for getting it over the line
every time. We pushed them hard
but they just had that edge.”
Determined Smith also had that
edge, which drew interest and,
ultimately, an offer from United.
“I was away with Scotland when I
first heard about United’s interest
and that moment was one of the
highlights of my career. I couldn’t
believe it.
“The team was starting off in the
Championship but I couldn’t pass
up on the opportunity. It was a
challenge I really wanted to be
part of and it’s the best thing I’ve
ever done.
“It had been my dream to play
professionally, but I had that
nagging doubt that I’d miss
home and my family too much.
Thankfully the city and the club
exceeded all expectations and I
haven’t looked back.”
United have committed to
upgrading the team’s facilities at
their famous Carrington training
ground and Smith has been
wide-eyed ever since she walked
through the front door at one of
the biggest clubs in the world.
She reflected: “I was used
to more modest resources in
Scotland, which isn’t a slight
on the game up here. It’s
just the reality.