AFL 2020: Liam Ryan tribute for godson Leslie in West Coast win over Collingwood

West Coast star Liam Ryan broke down in tears on the field after paying an emotional tribute to eight-year-old godson Leslie, who died this week.

Liam Ryan paid tribute to eight-year-old godson Leslie, who tragically died this week.

West Coast star Liam Ryan has broken down in tears on the field after paying an emotional tribute to eight-year-old godson Leslie during West Coast’s win over Collingwood on Sunday.

Ryan was expected to miss the match with his family dealing with the unimaginable tragedy of Leslie dying on Wednesday during an incident as he rode his bike to school.

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Ryan was given the perfect stage to pay tribute to his godson in the final quarter of the match when he took a mark in the goal square and walked back to have a set shot at goal from point blank range.

Appearing to struggle with emotion even before he kicked the goal, Ryan put the ball on the ground and hid his face at the back of his run-up.

Luke Shuey of the Eagles embraces Liam Ryan after kicking a goal.

After composing himself, he ran in and slotted the goal.

He was immediately swamped by teammates, but was seen wiping his face, kissing his black armband and pointing to the sky in the brief moment before half his team jumped on him.

“Well it’s been a tragic week for the Ryan family. His eight-year-old godson Leslie lost his life this week. And Ryan kicks the goal that everybody in Perth wanted him to today,” Channel 7 commentator Bruce McAvaney said.

An emotional Liam Ryan kicks a goal and points to the sky ❤️

Ryan’s eight-year-old godson and nephew was tragically killed while riding his bike to school this week. pic.twitter.com/COpzt5IkEA

— 7AFL (@7AFL) July 26, 2020

Brian Taylor said: “Look at the emotion. He’s in tears. Liam Ryan in tears there. Players are just checking and making sure that he’s OK.

“His teammates showing enormous affection for him there.”

Star forward Josh Kennedy was even spotted giving him a kiss on the cheek.

Earlier this week Ryan posted an emotional message on Instagram to honour his dear godson.

“My nephew I am lost for words,” he wrote.

“I wish I could tell you I love you one last time, always my boy.”

West Coast Eagles forward Liam Ryan is mourning after the tragic loss of a loved one.

Police confirmed the Leslie, who is the great grandson of football great Jim Krakouer, was riding his bike to school in Western Australia on Wednesday morning when he was hit by a truck while crossing the road in a school zone. He was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries but couldn’t be saved.