Colchester united manager Phil Parkinson looked to the positives after the U's Boxing Day clash with AFC Bournemouth was called off because of bad weather.

Frozen ground in the goalmouth at the Layer Road end of the pitch meant the Coca-Cola League One match could not take place.

The cold snap that struck over Christmas night into Boxing Day morning resulted in the referee making a pitch inspection just before midday.

The cancellation was frustrating for Parkinson.

He said: "I'm disappointed that it wasn't on. It was a close call as it was just one goal area, but you can't risk the safety of the players.

"However, it gives us the chance to have that little bit more rest before the Luton match."

The U's were due to face the League leaders today at Kenilworth Road.

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Published Tuesday, December 28, 2004

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