Matty Bowen put on a brave face after experiencing a hat-trick of rugby league grand final defeats, then revealed his third child was born just hours before he ran out with Wigan for the English Super League decider.
Daughter Tatum was induced by medical staff at a Wigan hospital to ensure the birth occurred before the match, against Leeds, who were 22-20 winners.
"Obviously I've had a long two days," the former Australian international said post-match.
"The missus had the baby at 11.30 last night and I was in bed by 12 so I had a good rest.
"She was due next week but we wanted to get it out before the grand final and, luckily enough, we found some Wigan fans that were midwives so we got it out."
While Leeds' triumph enabled Jamie Peacock, Kevin Sinfield and Kylie Leuluai to bow out of the game on a high, 33-year-old Bowen was left to reflect on another title that got away.
A runner-up with North Queensland Cowboys in 2005, Bowen was on the losing side for Wigan in 2014 and, after hanging up his boots, ends his two-year stint in Super League without a medal.
"It wasn't to be, but I wouldn't change anything," he said.
"I've loved every minute of my time at Wigan.
"I wasn't ready for it at the start, but I've grown to love the players and the club. I'll certainly keep a close on them over the next couple of years."
Wigan coach Shaun Wane had spoken in the build-up of the desire to give the popular Australian a fitting send-off and he was distraught for the player.
"I know a lot of people say it, but he's an even better bloke off the field. He's one outstanding individual, one of the best," Wane said.
"It's tough we couldn't get a win for him and a few of the other players who are leaving.
"But Mango is the one. He wasn't with us all weekend because he had a kid at midnight last night and has not slept. It's unfortunate, really unfortunate."
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