Liverpool Women’s Super League Fixture Postponed

The scheduled Women’s Super League match between Liverpool and Aston Villa has been postponed following the death of Matt Beard, the former manager of Liverpool, at the age of 47.

Details of the Postponement

The match was set to take place at Villa Park on Sunday, with kick-off originally planned for 12 PM (BST). In light of Beard’s passing, Aston Villa released a statement confirming the postponement: “Following yesterday’s devastating news of Matt Beard’s passing, our Barclays WSL fixture with Liverpool has been postponed.”

Tributes Paid to Matt Beard

Beard’s contributions to the club have been honored by Liverpool, describing him as “an extremely committed and successful manager” and a man of “real integrity and warmth.” The rescheduling details for the match will be communicated in due time.

Beard had two significant tenures at Liverpool; from 2012 to 2015, he led the team to two Women’s Super League titles, and during his second spell from 2021 to 2025, he helped the side gain promotion back to the WSL and stabilize their place in the league. He parted ways with the club in February 2025.

Impact on Other Clubs

Burnley FC, Beard’s former club, also announced that their National League North match against West Bromwich Albion would be postponed due to his death. Beard, who had recently joined Burnley, was only active with the team for a short period before entering gardening leave in August after resigning.

Community Response

The football community has come together to express condolences and share memories of Beard. Emma Hayes, head coach of the U.S. women’s national team and former colleague at Chelsea, referred to him as “one of the best humans.” In a similar vein, former England defender Claire Rafferty described Beard as having “the most genuine soul and kindest heart.”