Phil Parkinson's Colchester United side will be heading to Lancashire in the FA Cup fourth round to take on Premiership outfit Blackburn Rovers on January 29.

Mark Hughes' charges booked their spot in the next stage of the illustrious competition with a 3-2 win over Championship strugglers Cardiff City last night.

Rovers had a battle on their hands against the Bluebirds. David Thompson had given the Ewood Park side the lead in the ninth minute. However, Jobi McAnuff struck back for Cardiff.

Blackburn quickly raced into the lead again with Thompson bagging a second and Gamst Pedersen side-footed home to put Lennie Lawrence's troops further out of the fight.

A James Collins strike gave Cardiff some hope but, despite further efforts, Blackburn held on to secure a home tie against the U's.

Colchester have been linked with former Sheffield Wednesday striker Guylain Ndumbu-Nsungu.

The 22-year-old had his contract at Hillsborough terminated by mutual consent earlier in the week.

More on Colchester United FC

Have your say on our Views on the U's bulletin board

Published Thursday, January 20, 2005

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette