Bailey Wright reveals family heartache during Socceroos finest hour
2 min read
DOHA: A distraught Bailey Wright could barely speak after the Socceroos’ incredible win over Denmark, as he paid tribute to the enormous sacrifices made by his family.
It has since been confirmed that Wright’s mother in law passed away.
« I just want to dedicate this to my wife, and her mum – I’m going to be honest, I’m not sure if she’s still with us. So this was for them, » Wright said.
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« They’re having a really tough time back home, but ultimately, they’ve made this possible for me to be here and live one of my dreams. »
« I’ve just come in from a message from my wife … it’s sort of something I’ve kept to myself, we’ve all got a lot going on. »
Wright managed to put his personal demons to the side, coming on with half an hour to go and helping see off Denmark, to book Australia’s spot in the last 16.
« (Coach Graham Arnold) asked me to warm up when it was 0-0, then we had a few shouts that Tunisia were winning 1-0 so I wasn’t sure, maybe, if I’d get on or what would happen.
« Next minute, (Mat Leckie) worked his magic (to score) and I was already warmed up and ready to go. »
Whatever he kept to himself, even from other players, is now out in the open – but there’s no doubt the rest of the squad will be there for him.
« When we set out on this journey four years ago and Arnie kind of said to us what he wanted this to be about; and that our mateship and togetherness is what’s going to make us create history.
« The four-year journey that staff and players have made, a lot of people wouldn’t have seen those sacrifices. People isolating, being away from family for weeks, months.
« There’s a lot of people who aren’t here that have put that work in. »
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