Today’s huge FA Cup clash for Colchester United has been causing excitement across the town.
Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur are coming to the Weston Homes Community Stadium for the fourth-round clash.
The match, kicking off at 12.45pm, sold-out within days of tickets going on sale, and the anticipation is building around Colchester – even among non-football fans.
Civic figures around the town have been lending their support to the U’s ahead of the fixture.
Right Reverend Roger Morris, the Bishop of Colchester, said: “I’m just hoping the defence holds up.
“George Moncur [U’s midfielder] is a committed member of the Church of England so we are rooting for Colchester as much as we can.
“A number of local clergy are season ticket holders so may well be there at the match.
“Spurs is a tough draw, but you never know – it is the FA Cup at the end of the day and all the clichés apply.
“It should be good.”
Paul Smith, leader of Colchester Borough Council, said: “I’m a big football fan, though I’m a Crystal Palace support so I will be interested in a different match.
“I’m looking forward to a Col U win and drawing Palace in the next round.
“The enthusiasm in the town ahead of the match is fantastic, the anticipation of a Premier League club coming to Colchester is great.
“The fact the ground will be sold out is fantastic, and all in all it is very good.”
Will Quince, Colchester MP, said: “It’s exciting.
“I’m not a big football fan, but I recognise the importance of the club to the town and am very happy to support them in terms of the football and future development.
“It’s great to have 10,000-odd people coming to the town for the match, and it will be good to see the stadium full.”
Tim Young, borough councillor for culture and Ipswich Town fan said: “It is great for the town, having such a high-profile fixture, with a full stadium and I wish them the best of luck.
“I was brought up in a household of Arsenal supporters so I always love to see Tottenham get beaten and I hope the U’s do their bit.”
For all the latest news ahead of the games, and updates during the match, visit our sports pages.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here