The Suncorp Stadium let out a huge roar for Clare Polkinghorne on Thursday night as the retiring Matildas legend led her side out on to the Brisbane pitch for the final time.
The 35-year-old is set to call time on her Matildas career following the international break, with tonight’s friendly against Brazil being her 168th appearance for Australia.
The game adds to her astonishing appearance record, with the defensive stalwart the Matildas’ all-time leading appearance maker.
Polkinghorne appeared moved by the reception, holding back the tears, as fans inside the stadium waved banners, with messages of thanks for her sensational career playing for Australia.
She greeted several members of her family, before stepping up to the microphone to deliver a short pre-match message of thanks that appeared to move several of her team-mates to tears
‘Just a few quick words from me, because we’ve got a game to get on with,’ the former Brisbane Roar star said.
‘It’s so special for me to be here and celebrate in front of my home fans, in a city I grew up in and in a stadium I absolutely love.
‘This team has been eveything to me. It’s been a hell of a journey. And I’m very thankful for everything everyone has done along the way.
‘Thank you very much, and let’s get on with it,’ she added.
The legendary No 4 was also presented with a framed Matildas jersey that appeared to have been signed by several of her team-mates.
Polkinghorne made her Matilda’s debut back in 2006 and has yielded 16 goals during that time, playing in the 2007 World Cup, 2011 World Cup and was an unused squad member at the 2015 World Cup . She has also been selected to represent Australia at three Olympic Games,
More to follow…