Beth Mead paid tribute to Maria Petri.

Mead, who is currently the Women’s Super League top scorer with 10 goals, took to social media to express her sadness at the news.

And the 27-year-old took to social media following the match to express her delight at getting off to such a flying start.

“Can’t thank my teammates enough for today, absolutely buzzing to of got the W in our first game,” Mead posted on Twitter. “And a massive shoutout to Maria Petri who made her WSL debut today.”

Beth Mead, who played the full game and scored Arsenal’s second goal, dedicated the victory to Petri. “That one is for you, Maria,” she said.

Mead has established herself as an Arsenal legend in her own right, and will go down in history as one of the best players to ever don the red and white. She’s a two-time FA Cup winner, a League Cup winner, and has also lifted the Continental Cup twice. Beth has also been named Arsenal Women’s Player of the Season three times.

Mead has been with Arsenal since 2017 and played a key role in the club’s title-winning campaign last season, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists in 22 appearances.

“Maria was a true Arsenal fan through and through,” Beth wrote on Twitter. “She was always so supportive of the team and I know she will be sorely missed by everyone.” Maria was a season ticket holder at Arsenal’s women’s games and was a familiar face at the club’s training ground, where she would often chat to the players and staff.

Beth looks set to play an important part again this term as the Gunners look to defend their crown. Arsenal will take on Manchester City in their next league game on September 22. Beth Mead will be looking to continue her good form and help Arsenal to another victory.