Football world unites in New Zealand tribute

The tragic events in Christchurch on Friday rocked New Zealand, and the football community on both sides of the Tasman Sea responded with a united voice.

Supporters at all Hyundai A-League games observed an impeccable minute's silence before kick-off over the weekend, and there were a host of other tributes to the victims of the attacks at two mosques in the city.

READ: Phoenix help raise funds for Christchurch victims

New free to air banner

Kosta’s classy tribute

A proud Kiwi with almost a half-century of caps for the All Whites, Kosta Barbarouses was clearly deeply affected by the terrorist attacks in his homeland.

In a display of solidarity with Muslims everywhere, the Melbourne Victory forward’s first goal against Brisbane Roar was accompanied by a powerful celebration.

Barbarouses performed a traditional Islamic prayer stance after finding the net, in a moment that perfectly encapsulated the determination of New Zealanders to pull together in the wake of the attacks.

 

 

 

Krishna shows solidarity in emotional win

Wellington Phoenix’s Roy Krishna had plenty to celebrate as he scored his 15th goal of the season in his side’s 3-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers.

The awful events of Friday firmly put the game into perspective, though, and the match at Westpac Stadium was preceded by a solemn silence as those gathered in Wellington paid their respects.

Like Barbarouses, the Fijian striker dropped to his knees in a touching tribute to the victims and their families.

 

Rudan delivers heartfelt message

Despite another comfortable win for his 'Nix side, football was the last thing on Mark Rudan’s mind in the aftermath.

As reported on www.a-league.com.au, Rudan was open about the effect of the attacks on himself and the club as a whole.

“I’m not going to talk really much about the game,” Rudan said. “Because I thought it was the second most important thing. The most important thing is what happened a couple of days ago.

New telstra banner

“It’s shaken everybody up at the club. It’s shaken up me and my players.

“It’s not what this country’s about. It’s a great country this place. It’s opened its arms to so many different people, races and religions.

“It’s just sad. This country doesn’t deserve it.”

The Nix are supporting two worthy causes, one for victims and one for the family of New Zealand futsal player Atta Elayyan who tragically died in the attacks.

You are still able to donate to this worthy cause online on the Give A Little page here.

A Give A Little page for Atta Elayyan’s family is here.

Mark Rudan's emotional press conference

Together as one

They may be foes on the pitch but Wellington Phoenix and Western Sydney Wanderers players showed a moment of solidarity, forming a huddle during the minutes silence at Westpac Stadium.

 

 

Stars show their support

The football family around the world were quick to offer their support, too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visit page
This article was originally published on the Hyundai A-League website.
Close