Matt Beard’s Lasting Legacy on Liverpool and Women’s Football

Smiles, Titles and Transformation

There was always a smile. That is how those who knew Matt Beard remember him. Whether Liverpool Women had just won a title or endured a tough defeat, he found time to offer warmth to those around him. The former Liverpool manager, who tragically passed away at the age of 47, leaves a legacy that is woven into the fabric of women’s football.

Beard, affectionately known as “Beardy,” was not simply a coach who collected silverware. He was a devoted family man, a mentor, a friend. “He was more than a manager, a great mentor, a great friend, somebody that maybe saw potential in me that maybe I didn’t see myself,” said Fara Williams on BBC Radio 5 Live.

Liverpool’s women’s side were struggling before Beard arrived in 2012. The WSL was semi-professional, attendances were barely reaching triple digits, and the women’s game lacked funding and visibility. Beard gave up a career in estate agency to follow his passion. He built a team that went from also-rans to champions, delivering back-to-back Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014.

Rising Through Adversity

The scale of Beard’s achievement becomes clearer when you remember the conditions under which he worked. “We had no money (and could) barely pay you but you still said yes,” wrote Canada coach Casey Stoney, who once played for Chelsea under Beard. The FA’s broadcast deal at the time offered little commercial uplift. Yet Beard, through sheer commitment, brought a professional edge to Liverpool.

His teams were characterised by their spirit and resilience. Liverpool’s title-winning campaign in 2014 was clinched on the final day, thanks to a 3-0 victory over Bristol Academy. That day symbolised his philosophy: never give up, never settle.

Beard’s career took him beyond Merseyside. He managed Chelsea, reached an FA Cup final with West Ham United in 2019, and coached Boston Breakers in the United States. Yet Liverpool called again when their women’s team were relegated in 2020 and needed inspiration. Beard returned and guided them back to the top flight, lifting the Women’s Championship trophy in 2022.

Humanity Beyond Football

The tributes have been as heartfelt as they have been numerous. Arsenal manager Renee Slegers praised Beard’s impact on those who knew him: “It was really hard for them but it shows a lot of strength, showing up today for the team.” Gilly Flaherty said she would have “travelled around the world” to play for him.

Beard was known for his authenticity. His trademark greeting, “Alright darlin’?”, would be accompanied by a hug. He valued the person first, the player second. Natasha Dowie wrote, “You were different to most, always making sure the person came first before the player.”

A Legacy Beyond the Touchline

Even in his absence, Beard’s impact continues to shape the game. Liverpool and Burnley postponed their matches as a mark of respect, while across the country players wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence. At Leigh Sports Village, Arsenal supporters held up a banner in the 47th minute that read: “We love you Beardy.”

Beard’s influence went far beyond results. He pushed for better pitches, improved facilities and fairer officiating. He made players feel part of something bigger, fostering belief and unity. “It’s not just about the achievements on the pitch, but how he made everyone feel like they were part of the success,” Liverpool supporter Philippa Smallwood told The Athletic.

When Beard’s teams celebrated, they did so together. Win or lose, he would gather staff in a local pub to share a drink and reflect. That togetherness, that sense of community, will endure as part of his memory.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Matt Beard was more than a coach, he was an architect of change. Fans will remember the days when the women’s team played in front of barely 100 spectators. Beard’s work transformed that experience, creating a team worth following, one that inspired young girls to dream of playing for Liverpool.

There is also admiration for the personal qualities that shone through. Beard cared about the fans, the players and the wider community. Supporters who met him at games recall him taking time to speak with them, no matter the result. That connection between manager and supporter base is rare in football, and it made him beloved on Merseyside.

For many Liverpool fans, his legacy is not measured in silverware alone but in what he stood for. He fought for the women’s game when it was underfunded, underappreciated and overlooked. His back-to-back titles put Liverpool Women on the map and laid the groundwork for the growth we see today.

Fans will hope the club honours Beard’s memory with a permanent tribute at Prenton Park or Anfield. A banner or memorial would be fitting for a man who gave so much to the club and who shaped the culture of women’s football in this country. Liverpool supporters will never forget Matt Beard’s smile, his warmth and the belief he instilled in everyone he worked with.