On this day in 2001… Our maiden European tie vs FC Lovech

Article has been adapted from an original Facebook post by Cathal McGuinness

15 years today was an historic night as Longford Town & Stephen Kenny made there European debut v Litex Lovech of Bulgaria in the UEFA Cup. 3 big signings in Alan Reynolds, Alan Kirby & Eric Lavine were brought in with coach Christy Campbell (RIP) leaving being replaced by Derek O'Neil.

This was before the introduction of summer football & Town had a pre-season of games in the Super Cup v Cork City, Shelbourne & Bohemians and friendly games v Cardiff City, Dutch side Leonidas and 45 minutes of an abandoned game (not so friendly!) v Brighton.

Here's a few memories of the 1st Leg in Flancare Park & 2 weeks later in Lovech. Town put in 2 superb performances (despite the circumstances of Balkan Airlines!) & were most unlucky not to got through. Thanks for the memories lads!