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Brisbane Bronco pays tribute to Liam Hampson after lining up for the kangaroos in their World Cup clash against Scotland, just DAYS after learning his buddy had died on a European holiday
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Queensland State of Origin star Patrick Carrigan has paid tribute to his late compatriot Liam Hampson in his second game for the Kangaroos.
Redcliffe Dolphins player Liam Hampson tragically died earlier this week at a Spanish nightclub, Sala Apolo, which rocked the rugby league world.
Patrick Carrigan pauses during Kangaroos game against Scotland – where he wore a scripted message ‘Hampo’ on his right wrist
Brisbane Broncos lock Patrick Carrigan was one of the Australian squad who was completely taken aback by the news as he played with and against Hampson throughout his young career.
Carrigan, who was in the same year as Hampson, wept during the Kangaroos moment of silence for the young man, inspiring the squad to a massive 84-0 win over Scotland.
Carrigan bursts through the Scottish defense – he ran 153 meters in a stunning forward performance
Panthers skipper Isaah Yeo also shed a tear during the televised pre-match tribute.
Carrigan played prop, wearing an in-scripted ‘Hampo’ message on his right wrist and a black armband with the rest of the side.
The young hooker had a strong season in Queensland’s rugby league and was a much-loved member of the Dolphins club.
Panthers skipper Isaah Yeo sheds a tear as the Kangaroos pay tribute to late Dolphins player Liam Hampson
Carrigan finished the race after running more yards than anyone else, logging 153 in a brave forward display.
“He tackled it with great strength,” said Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga.
“He’s clearly grieving. He is a great character. Emotionally, as the day goes by, we may need to stand around him with support.
“It’s tragic what happened. Again, we extend our condolences to family and friends.”
The number 13 will be getting some much needed time off this week to cope with his loss, and will be close to his family as his parents were both in Coventry to watch the match.
Carrigan’s right arm reads ‘God grant me serenity’, below his black bracelet for late friend Liam Hampson
Scottish coach Nathan Graham said it is a ‘sad time’ for rugby league, and the wider community has gathered around Hampson’s family.
Hampson’s buddy, Bronco’s big man Jordan Riki, put a… gofundme page for him, who has already received nearly $73,000 in donations.
“We would like to support his beautiful family in getting Liam home,” the page read.
“As we all know, Liam was a beautiful soul who brought people together with his love, wisdom and jokes. Liam was an extraordinary talent on and off the football pitch helping his teammates win a nail-biting game or teaching children and many others about life and its wisdom.”