A day never to be forgotten for the Ward family.
Colchester United's season opener against Blackpool was an entertaining and action packed affair but, for one U's supporter, the afternoon was full of even more drama off the pitch.
Adam Ward, along with sons Aidan (15) and Aston (5) were in attendance at the match against the Seasiders, having purchased a twelve game pack during the summer to watch Tony Humes' men in action.
Meanwhile, Adam's wife Angie was close to being ready to give birth to their third child – and, as it turns out, closer than anyone might have imagined!
Adam takes up the story: "This was the first time we’d been in the South Stand and were all there with our new kits on.
"Fifteen minutes into the game, my phone goes and Angie tells me she is having contractions.
"I told the stewards, who were very helpful as they kept an eye on the boys whilst I ran a mile up to Severalls, where my car was parked.
"With all of us in the car, I got halfway down the A12 towards our home in Chappel, before Angie phoned again and said that the contractions had stopped and I should go back to the football. Of course, I did as she asked!
"I got back to the football at half time and we started to watch the second half, only for Angie to phone twenty minutes in to say the contractions had started again.
"I ran off to the car and off home to pick her up, and once again the stewards looked after my boys, who were picked up at end of game by my grandparents.
"I got home and got to the hospital at 515pm, where her contractions continued.
"At 7pm her waters broke, and at 8:24pm Esmée Rose Ward was born, weighing 6lbs 4oz. She's a healthy and beautiful girl and a future U's fan in the making!"
Congratulations must go to Adam, Angie and the boys and credit to Adam for showing exceptional fitness levels to embark on two runs!
The U’s have made Esmée a Junior U's member to welcome her into the world and we look forward to seeing the Ward family at a game soon.
The U's take on Scunthorpe in their next home game. Get your tickets now at the Advance rate - click HERE to buy!