Neil Warnock fielded a line-up that seemed strong enough to see-off Colchester, despite the recent good run that Phil Parkinson’s side had been on.
Leigh Bromby was suspended, whilst Paddy Kenny, David Unsworth and Neil Shipperley were rested amongst others. The Blades took the lead within 5 minutes of the game when leading scorer Steven Kabba celebrated signing a new contract by scoring his 10th of the season. Michael Tonge’s shot was parried the goalkeeper and Paul Ifill was there but his vicious shot rebounded back off the bar into the path of Kabba who slotted home.
Colchester’s impressive midfielder Neil Danns pulled the U’s level on 33 minutes after the Blades defence left him unmarked at the back post. A long throw eventually fell to Danns who had no trouble in putting it in the back of the net.
After the break it was becoming fairly evident that the Blades didn’t look interested in a possible big 4th round tie, and were happy to go sit back and soak up the pressure.
Colchester took the lead on 72 minutes through Gareth Williams – a striker who hadn’t scored for a year. He was allowed to head the ball past Phil Barnes with ease after a teasing cross from Mark Yeates.
Chinese legend Hao Haidong made his debut for United as a late sub but couldn’t prevent the Blades from heading out of the FA Cup at the first time of asking.
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