In a game that will be remembered for far more than the result, Adelaide United captain Izzy Hodgson experienced a moment of courage, resilience and love.
Less than 24 hours after losing her nana, Hodgson took to the field against the Newcastle Jets – and found the back of the net in what became one of the most emotional goals of the Reds’ season.
“It was a really emotional game for me,” Hodgson said.
“When I scored, I was honestly overwhelmed… I just felt like she would have been watching and would’ve been so proud.”
As she turned to the stands, she locked eyes with her sister – both overcome with emotion – before being embraced by her teammates.
“The girls were all saying, ‘that was for her,’ and it made the moment incredibly special,” she said.
While Saturday’s 3-1 result didn’t go United’s way, Hodgson was full of pride for a group that continues to find ways to stand tall in adversity.
With several key players unavailable, the Reds were forced to dig deep – and did so with trademark resilience.
“I was really proud of how the group handled it,” Hodgson said.
“We had players stepping up into bigger minutes and even a debut, which was really exciting. There was a lot to be proud of in the effort and resilience we showed.”
That resilience has defined United’s season – and has now been rewarded with a second consecutive Finals appearance.
For Hodgson, it’s an achievement that reflects both the quality of the squad and the standards they’ve set internally.
“Making Finals was a non-negotiable for us,” she said.
“It shows the consistency we’ve built as a group and sets a strong foundation heading into the next stage.”
Despite limited minutes this season, Hodgson’s influence on the group has never wavered.
The skipper has embraced her leadership role in all forms – on the pitch, from the sidelines, and within the dressing room – continuing to drive standards and belief across the squad.
“My leadership doesn’t change whether I’m on the field or not,” she said.
“I have so much belief in this group and what we’re capable of.”
That belief is shared across a playing group that knows its best football is still to come.
“With a full team, we’re one of the best sides in the competition,” Hodgson said.
“Finals is a different challenge, but we’ve got the experience and talent to step up when it matters most.”
Before Finals begin, the Reds have one more opportunity to build momentum – and they’ll do it in front of their home fans at Coopers Stadium this Friday night in a special double header against the Wellington Phoenix.
🎟 Be there at Coopers Stadium this Friday night and get behind the Reds as they build towards Finals.
