THE previous time that Colchester United played Hereford United was 10 years ago, during the promotion-winning 1997-98 season.

Carl Marston

THE previous time that Colchester United played Hereford United was 10 years ago, during the promotion-winning 1997-98 season.

The U's lost a penalty shoot-out at Edgar Street, following a 1-1 draw in an FA Cup second round replay.

Steve Wignall was the manager at the time, so it was quite appropriate that Wignall should be the U's Guest of Honour on Saturday.

It was Wignall's first visit to the U's new Weston Homes Community Stadium, following the summer move from Layer Road. And he was very impressed with the U's new home, if not the performance on the pitch!

“I think the new stadium looks terrific. It's far better than some of the other newer stadiums around the country,” said Wignall.