Colchester United boss Phil Parkinson wasn't too unhappy with news that the U's will start next season with an away trip to Barnsley.

The Layer Road side visit the Tykes on Saturday, August 9, and Parkinson said: "We would have preferred a home game but we just have to get on with it.

"Realistically it shouldn't matter whether we're home or away.

"We have to make sure we are focused and prepared for the new season."

The U's chief took his side to Oakwell in March and came away with a 1-1 draw.

He said: "It's a tough start to the campaign.

"We went to Barnsley last season when we had a game plan and battled it out for a point.

"I expect we'll have to work just as hard to get something out of the game this time."

Highlights of the fixture list include the home game with Sheffield Wednesday on November 15.

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Published Thursday, June 19, 2003

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