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Kyra Cooney-Cross is a long way from London’s Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal’s home ground was symbolically close to her during Saturday’s Women’s Super League match against Manchester United.
Days after the Matildas midfielder rushed back to Australia to be with her mother, Jess, who has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, her club teammates and supporters offered a series of moving tributes.
Arsenal player warm up wearing shirts in support Kyra Cooney-Cross’ severaly ill mother JessCredit: Getty Images
Cooney-Cross shared late last week that she had left her club duties in North London and flown to Queensland, where Jess is in hospital with Stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma - bile duct cancer - for which there is no cure.
“My mum is my hero, my best friend, my everything, and the person who has shaped every part of who I am,” she posted on Instagram.
“She is the reason I am where I am today, her strength, love, and belief in me has carried me through everything. Trying to put into words what she means to me feels impossible.
Kyra Cooney-Cross revealed her mother’s rare and aggressive cancer diagnosis last week.Credit: Instagram
“I’m now back in Australia to be with my mum, my sisters, and our family as we navigate what comes next. We are all still in shock and learning how to sit with the weight of this news.”
A couple of days later, 37,000 spectators watched from the stands as the Arsenal squad - including Matildas teammates Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord - completed their pre-match warm-up wearing shirts emblazoned with the 23-year-old’s name and playing number, 32.
A group of supporters had marched to the Emirates holding “We love you Kyra and Jess” signs, which they raised to applause in the 32nd minute.
“There’s bigger things in life,” Arsenal manager Renee Slegers said after the match, during which her third-placed side played out a 0-0 draw despite playing against 10 for the final 25 minutes.
“Of course, we miss Kyra here, but Kyra is where she needs to be right now, with the family, so our thoughts are with her, Jess, and the rest of the family.”
Manchester United manager Marc Skinner also offered his support.
Kyra Cooney-Cross (right) with her mother Jessica and two of her three younger sisters.
“I just want to share a message for Kyra and her family,” Skinner said. “From everyone in Manchester United, we wish you all the very best, and the football family’s with you, and I hope that you can find a happy space.”
Cooney-Cross, who has requested privacy during the family’s distressing time, also shared a fundraising page, which has been shared widely by national and club teammates, and Arsenal great Ian Wright.
The midfielder is a key component of Australia’s Asian Cup plans and is due in camp for a national team camp in February.
with AAP
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