Yes, results are super important. You play to win, and when you fail in it big time, like West Ham today against Southampton (3-2 for the Saints), it’s no wonder you feel sad and deprived of joy.But the Hammers, definitely, shouldn’t. Because they showed their excellence and human kindness at an almost unprecedented level. Prior to the Saints tie, they published an official lineup comprised of many familiar names and one totally unknown and different.Today, Isla Caton is officially our 12th man ❤️⚒She couldn’t be here for the match, but we’re all with you @islasfight! pic.twitter.com/K44xv1EeIl— West Ham United (@WestHam) December 26, 2021 Isla Caton was listed as the 12th player – she is a young West Ham fan suffering from neuroblastoma and has become an icon in the fight against cancer. The Hammers skipper Mark Noble carried her in his arms and held her while the teams and the referees were lining up before the kick-off.Isla was due to be a guest @WestHam today but unfortunately she has had to attend the hospital for a blood transfusion, we’re sure the number 12 shirt would be pride of place & whatever the score Isla is a winner ⚒️💖⚒️💖⚒️ pic.twitter.com/yYgKSHHpuh— Isla Caton (@islasfight) December 26, 2021 She is a seven-year-old who, since the age of two, has been battling cancer. Her family recently revealed that treatment is no longer working on little Isla and that they are now concentrating on ensuring she can extract as much happiness out of this life as possible. There’s no victory, draw or loss more important than such an act of kindness and solidarity. And that’s why West Heam defeat will be forgotten as soon as tomorrow. But their gesture towards Isla will be remembered for a long, long time.
