Celtic host Glasgow City in an intriguing meeting in the SWPL this evening, the first time the teams have met since the dramatic finale to last year’s title race.
The fixture attracted a record attendance of 15,822 at Celtic Park in the closing weeks of the SWPL as Alonso’s side pushed for their first ever title.
They lost out in agonising circumstances as City claimed it in the final minutes of their game against Rangers at Ibrox. Celtic recovered to go on and win the Scottish Cup at Hampden the following week but the frustration of being so near and so far left a clear hangover.
Alonso’s task got harder over the summer when he lost the spine of his side as the Spaniard brought in 11 players in the window.
His side are unbeaten domestically - the only team who can boast a 100% win return in the league so far - something that he has expressed some surprise at given the changes he had to make.
“We knew some players would go but it came as a surprise at some others that we had to replace,” said Alonso. “Scouting was crazy and it was very challenging but I am surprised at how quickly we have gelled and at the quality of some of the performances.
“Potentially against teams that are more experienced and playing at a higher level than we play here at Scotland like Tenerife and Valarenga. We still managed to impose our game on them for long spells.
“We were disappointed with the Champions League exit but we played so well in those games which is a higher level than what we have, no disrespect, than the SWPL. These games against Glasgow City are similar to that.
“I don’t think we could have made a better start to the season. So far in domestic competitions, we are the only team with a 100% record.
“That gives us a lot of confidence and we're looking forward to testing ourselves against a direct opponent.”
Celtic are eager to continue that domestic streak this evening while City, too, have only dropped points in a draw with Rangers this evening.
Alonso, though, has maintained that whatever happens will have no significant bearing on the title race.
“Whoever does not win it, they have a lot of time still to catch up,” said the Celtic manager. “There are so many games still to be played and so much of the season remaining.
“We have played very well against City in our recent meetings with them.
“Every game is important for us and this is another one that we want to win. But if we do that, it is only three points.”
Meanwhile, Celtic defender Caitlin is keen to see a decent crowd turn out at the Excelsior for the 7.30pm kick-off.
“It makes such a difference although it is always fantastic to play in front of our own support.
“We are all really looking forward to this game but we are just treating it the way we would any other. I don’t think we feel as though we have a point to prove.”
