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In the wake of the horrific Christchurch terror attack in New Zealand last Friday, the football community united in its condemnation of the abhorrent event. PFA members expressed their shock, sending prayers to the victims via social media. Others, including Kosta Barbarouses and Roy Krishna, showed their solidarity through sombre goal celebrations.
On Saturday evening at Marvel Stadium, New Zealand international Kosta Barabarouses paid tribute to the people of his homeland following his first goal of the night, acknowledging the events in Christchurch with a muted celebration and ‘Sajdah prayer’.
“[It was a] really devastating day for everyone in the country, probably one of [our] darkest days,” Barabarouses said.
“I was pretty emotional when I heard the news and just wanted to put some awareness to the people who have lost loved ones.”
In Wellington, the players from Phoenix and Western Sydney Wanderers came together before the match to unite in an embrace in the centre circle of Westpac Stadium, observing a moment’s silence and paying tribute to those affected by the events in Christchurch.
The goal celebrations after all three of Phoenix’s first-half goals were muted and Roy Krishna also kneeled in the Sajdah prayer position after his opener.
Krishna’s fellow goalscorer David Williams posted the following via Instagram: “On a week that has been so devastating for the families and people of Christchurch and the whole of New Zealand, we hope that can put a smile on some people’s faces through football.”
Melbourne Victory’s Kesuike Honda also responded with a message offering his “deepest condolences to the victims and their families.”
Former PFA Executive Member – Bruce Djite said that the demonstration of players in Wellington was “A great example of the unifying power of sport.”
Sam Kerr also felt compelled to make a statement in the face of the terrible event, stating “When will the hate end”
