Jenna Clark pays emotional tribute to Matt Beard after Liverpool’s League Cup victory over Sunderland | OneFootball

Photo: Chloe Knott for The FA

Liverpool Women defender Jenna Clark paid an emotional tribute to Matt Beard after their 5-0 victory over Sunderland.

The Reds marked their return to the pitch with a poignant win in the Women’s League Cup, their first match since the death of former manager Beard.

The team delivered a performance filled with emotion and togetherness as they overcame the weight of the past few days.

What Jenna Clark said about Matt Beard after Liverpool victory

Defender Jenna Clark, who captained the side on the night, spoke about the strong bond that has carried the club through the loss of their former manager Matt Beard.

“People talk about Liverpool Football Club as being a family. We have seen that so much in the past few days,” she said.

“There are probably not enough words to really say how much that means to us. We heard the fans throughout and the minute’s silence at the start was really emotional, but it was nice that we paid that tribute to Matt.”

Clark underlined how the support from the stands had played a vital part in helping the players cope with the occasion. The quiet reflection before kick-off was followed by passionate backing from the supporters, creating a powerful atmosphere at the ground.

Clark did more than wear the armband. She also found the net, scoring Liverpool’s second goal of the evening. Her contribution summed up the spirit of a side determined to honour their former manager.

“In the past few days we have also been reminiscing about all the stories of ‘Beardy’ in training and the type of person he was,” she said. “It has been really difficult, it’s not been a lot of time.

“A lot of staff and players have been up and down. We remember him so well and there have been some good stories being shared so we have had smiles on our faces at times. He would have liked that. We’ll remember him as the happy character he was.”

Remembering Matt Beard

Beard’s influence at Liverpool stretched far beyond the touchline. His personality and approach left a mark on both players and staff. Even in grief there have been moments of warmth as memories of training ground humour and kindness have resurfaced.

Liverpool head coach Gareth Taylor said Beard would have been ‘proud’ of the players after their win over Sunderland.

A host of names in the women’s game have paid tribute to Beard including Marc Skinner, Emma Hayes and Olivia Smith.

A crowdfunder for Beard’s family passed an incredible milestone this week, with over £40,000 raised.