Ahead of tonight's kick-off both teams observed a minute's silence in memory of Matt Beard.
Our thoughts remain with Matt's loved ones during this difficult time 💜
After all Matt Beard has done for women’s football, all the support he gave his players and everything he achieved over a long career, he could only allow himself three months before having to consider something else. We are nowhere near it yet
Hannah Hampton's tribute to Matt Beard: "He lit up the room when everyone was in it. This is a message to show that not everyone should have to go through these dark moments alone. Sometimes the brightest smiles in the room hide the heaviest pain. He’ll be greatly missed."
This is such a painful time for everyone who knew Matt Beard. If friends or supporters wish to ease the burden of funeral costs, etc, here’s a way to support Matt’s wife Debbie as she and the kids attempt to process the sudden loss of this lovely man 💔
https://t.co/yctkX2mhaE
Matt Beard was the most successful manager in the history of Liverpool's women's team. He was also a staunch believer in women's football before much support existed.
However, it was his friendship and smile that players, fans and colleagues remembered most following his tragic passing.
✍️ @CaoimheSport & @CharlotteHarpur
https://t.co/A0cENsQeWC
Matt Beard's passion to drive the game forward had an everlasting impact on the Women's game and all involved in it, forging a legacy that will always see his name alongside the very greats of our game ❤️
There aren’t enough words for Matt Beard, he believed in the women’s game when few did… he cared for us all as if we were his daughters, and he always always had time for anyone and everyone.. he made a bad day better! Thinking of his family and friends ❤️😔 RIP Beardy 🕊️
Totally understandable (the disappointment of having to turn back when nearly there is nothing compared to what others will be going through - in both teams). 8 + 47 mins would've reminded us that people are bigger than the game.
Let's hope the redate is a proper all-out battle.
There's an upsetting irony in how we will pay tribute to both Maddy Cusack & Matt Beard this weekend when Maddy was let down so tragically by male leaders to lead her to take her own precious life & Matt was everything a player, just like Maddy, deserved.
Need more Beardys.
💔
If you ever you feel alone, PLEASE reach out. There is always going to be someone on the end of the phone that would rather listen to you than wonder what they could’ve done to help. Be kind and wrap your arms around those you love. ❤️