Colchester saved themselves from the drop to League 2, while Preston fell into the play-offs on the final day of League 1 football.
Preston went into the game in second place, needing a win to secure promotion to the Championship. Colchester were also hoping for the three points to secure their safety at the other end of the table.
At the final whistle, it was the U’s who got what they wanted and left the Lilywhites hoping to end their play-off curse.
The first half was a nervy affair with both teams desperate to get the points they needed. It led to little chances at first from both sides but soon the opportunities came.
Joe Garner headed a cross towards goal but it was straight at goalkeeper Sam Walker, while the home side came close as Jacob Murphy lobbed PNE keeper Sam Johnstone, only for the shot to go marginally wide.
The second half began with a lot more pace and action and it took just twelve minutes for the first key event to take place – Johnstone brought down George Moncur and Colchester were awarded a penalty.
Up stepped Chris Porter…who fired the ball straight over the bar. It was a lifeline for Preston and a huge blow for the U’s.
The Lilywhites began to throw everyone forward and nearly got the goal they wanted when Daniel Johnson whipped the ball into the box, only for Joe Garner’s header to narrowly miss the goal.
The deadlock was finally broken when George Moncur fired home from twelve yards for the home side. Despite more pressing from PNE, Colchester managed to hold on and secure their League 1 status.
The final whistle brought massive joy for the home team and their fans. As for Preston, it brought utter heartbreak at coming so close yet so far to promotion to the second tier of English football.
Of course there is still a chance for the Lilywhites to secure promotion but only through the play-offs – something which the club hasn’t been able to do at the last nine attempts.
Preston will now move on to the play-offs which begin on Thursday. They will be taking on Chesterfield in the first leg of the tie at the Proact Stadium. In the other tie, Sheffield United will take on Swindon Town.
Man of the Match – George Moncur
