Tributes to Beard filled the WSL schedule on Sunday, and those working for the BBC on the weekend’s top fixture at Leigh Sports Village – including Alex Scott and Steph Houghton, shared their thoughts, wishes and memories. For Williams, it was clear to see how much he meant to her, becoming tearful as she spoke about him and the impact he had on her and so many others. She was consoled on camera by both colleagues, with Scott stepping in to speak when the retired midfielder was unable to continue.
“It’s a tough day,” Williams said. “I tried to speak about him earlier and it’s difficult. He meant so much to all of us. He will be missed.”
With Williams unable to continue at that point, Scott added: “Matt was a leader, he was a mentor, and he was a manager. His love for the game will leave a lasting impact on so many. Everyone here at BBC sends their deepest sympathies to Matt’s family, friends, and his loved ones, and everyone in the football community at this difficult time.”
Williams was a key part of the Liverpool team that Beard steered to successive WSL titles in 2013 and 2014 – the only club other than Chelsea and Arsenal to have lifted the trophy. He was famed for building teams, developing players and helping individuals reach their full potential, with fomer West Ham forward Alisha Lehmann also among those to pay tribute, recalling the faith Beard had shown in her when she was a raw talent.
Liverpool, the club where Beard made his single greatest impact across two spells, postponed their weekend fixture out of respectbut will be back in action for the first time since his passing when Manchester United visit the Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens on September 28.
