England welcomed Scotland to Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on Friday evening, with both teams set to kickstart their UEFA Women’s Nations League campaigns – just two weeks after the male Three Lions cruised to a 3-1 victory against the Tartan Army.
But an excited crowd at the Stadium of Light fell silent before kickoff, as players gathered around the centre circle to remember the life of Sheffield United’s Maddy Cusack. Her passing was confirmed in a statement by the club on Thursday, and the footballing community have united to pay respects to the 27-year-old.
Embed from Getty ImagesSheffield United’s Chief Executive, Stephen Bettis, spoke to sufc.co.uk, adding that Maddy’s passing ‘is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane. Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with. Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family – she will be sadly missed.’
Several FA Women’s National League clashes have been postponed as clubs take time to reflect on the situation, while Sheffield United have confirmed that Maddy Cusack’s photo will adorn the front of their matchday programme this weekend. Players will also don a black armband to pay their respects to a well-loved individual, who tragically lost her life at just 27-years-old.
