Beth Mead pays tribute to 'Queen of Arsenal' Maria Petri after Brighton win

Arsenal star Beth Mead has paid tribute to former Gunners super-fan Maria Petri, who passed away in July.

Mead scored twice and assisted once as Jonas Eidevall’s side kicked off their Women’s Super League campaign with a dominant 4-0 win against Brighton. 

Before the match, Arsenal shared a touching social media post, showing how they’d inserted a plaque on Petri’s old seat. The post read: “In loving memory of Maria Petri, 1939-2022.”

Over the years, Petri became the heart and soul of Arsenal football club and was well known for inventing the Beth Mead song –– even having the chance to sing the tune with the English winger. 

It was thus fitting that the impressive Mead netted her second goal of the night in the 83rd minute –– the same age as Petri when she died. 

Beth Mead scored in the 83rd minute for Arsenal…Lifelong Gooner Maria Petri was 83 when she sadly passed away earlier this year ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sLrYzcau0G

Speaking after the match, Mead emphasised the memorable legacy Petri has left on the club and described her as the “Queen of Arsenal.” 

“I’ve known [knew] Maria for as long as I’ve been here and it won’t be the same without her,” Mead added. 

“Long may Maria’s legacy last. We’ll miss her greatly.” 

For you, Maria ❤️ pic.twitter.com/OJrDrnAZn0

Mead is not the only Arsenal icon to pay tribute to Petri. 

Back in July, both Alex Scott and Ian Wright offered their condolences and stressed their love for the super-fan. 

“Arsenal through and through,” Scott wrote. “Thank you for the love, the passion, the songs and support for us @ArsenalWFC from the very beginning.

“We will never forget you Maria, We love you #COYG.”