A FOOTBALL-mad couple showed their love for each other and their shared passion for the beautiful game by celebrating their wedding at Roots Hall.

Georgina and Tony Roberts, of West Road, Shoebury, had their first dance - to Amazed by Lonestar - on the pitch ahead of Saturday’s clash between Southend United and Walsall.

The newlyweds have had a shared love of football since they met online seven years ago.

They felt it was only right that the game was a part of their wedding day.

Mrs Roberts, 38, said: “I’ve supported Southend for years but never really had anyone to share that with.

“Then I met Tony online and at the time he lived in Wales and was a massive Wrexham fan.

“Before long, he moved here to be with me and we started going to the football together so it was a really important part of our relationship.

“Tony’s a big believer in supporting your local football team so he doesn’t mind following the Blues with me.”

It has long been her dream to exchange vows at Roots Hall, but the venue does not have a wedding licence.

But that didn’t stop the Mrs Roberts and her 44-year-old husband heading to the ground for their reception.

Mrs Roberts added: “I’ve always joked that I would never miss a football game to get married.

“My ideal wedding would’ve been to get married on the pitch but instead we walked down from the registry office in Victoria Avenue to Roots Hall after the ceremony.

“Just before the game, someone asked us if we wanted to have our first dance on the pitch so we did which was really special. We’re season ticket holders so all the other fans were there to share it with us.”

The couple chose the perfect game to combine with their celebration as the Blues won 3-2.

The newlyweds were able to enjoy the game from a special VIP box before going on to join family and friends at their reception.

Mrs Roberts added: “It just happened to be the one home game where the dates lined up for everyone but it was great they could get the win on our special day.”

Blues manager Phil Brown said: “If the marriage is anything like the game it will start badly and end well, but it was great to have them with us on Saturday.

“I spoke to them before the game to congratulate them and to wish them all the very best for their future together. I’m glad we were able to get the right result on their big day too.”