COLCHESTER United proved there was life after Greg Halford tonight as they beat high-flying Preston at Layer Road.A goal by Garry Richards in the 67th minute was enough for the U's to secure a 1-0 win.

COLCHESTER United proved there was life after Greg Halford tonight as they beat high-flying Preston at Layer Road.

A goal by Garry Richards in the 67th minute was enough for the U's to secure a 1-0 win.

Earlier in the evening, Halford had sealed a switch to Premiership side Reading for an undisclosed fee.