Sydney FC confirmed 21-year-old midfielder Hana Lowry has suffered a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
Lowry succumbed to the injury in Sydney’s 1-1 draw with Melbourne City in Unite Round on Sunday afternoon.
A new arrival at the reigning champions ahead of the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season, Lowry was set to link up with the CommBank Matildas squad this week ahead of four friendlies against Brazil and Chinese Taipei, having been called up to the senior squad for the first time in her career.
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After the club confirmed the devastating news of Lowry’s season-ending injury, Sydney head coach Ante Juric threw his full support behind the young midfielder.
“We’re all absolutely devastated for Hana,” Juric said.
“She’s been incredible for us this season and was just starting to show her full potential.
“Being selected for the Matildas recently was a testament to her hard work and talent. To see her season cut short like this is truly heartbreaking but Hana is strong, and we’ll do everything in our power to support her recovery.”
“This team is like a family, and Hana is such an integral part of that,” Juric added.
“Everyone, from the players to the staff, is behind her 100% to ensure she is going to come back stronger.”
Lowry joined Sydney FC on a two-season contract in August after a glistening 72-game spell at her hometown club Perth Glory. She won her former club’s Most Glorious Player award last season, before signing for Sydney where she earned the first senior Matildas call-up of her career in early November.
“This isn’t how I wanted my season to go, but I’m taking it as a challenge to grow both mentally and physically,” Lowry said.
“The support from my teammates, coaches, and the whole Sydney FC family has been overwhelming, and it’s already keeping me focused on what’s ahead.
“I’ve really loved every minute of playing for Sydney FC, even though it has only been for a few games, and I can’t wait to get back.”
Lowry says the presence of captain Nat Tobin and Kirsty Fenton in the Sydney squad – two players who have both suffered ACL tears in recent years – has been pivotal in the days following her season-ending injury.
Tobin has returned to action at Sydney FC this year, while Fenton is continuing her own recovery and is expected to return to Ninja A-League action this season.
“Nat has been incredible, both as a leader and someone who understands exactly what I’m going through,” Lowry added.
“She’s shown me what’s possible with hard work and resilience. Kirsty, too, has been a great support, and I know we’ll be leaning on each other during our rehabs.”
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