Colchester improved their hopes of a play-off place by earning a win over fellow promotion-chasers Preston. Preston striker David Nugent appealed for an early penalty when he pounced on a loose ball and felt he was fouled by Matthew Mills as he tried to shoot.
The referee failed to award a spot-kick and Colchester grew stronger as the game progressed.
The home side's efforts were rewarded when Chris Barker's cross picked out Garry Richards and he headed home.
Colchester manager Geraint Williams on Garry Richards:
"He's not the most prolific of scorers but he has worked hard and it just goes to show the spirit amongst the boys. "He deserves his goal because his attitude this season has been fantastic as he hasn't had many chances.
"We passed the ball well and I felt we were very assured."
Preston manager Paul Simpson:
"All credit to Colchester. They defended absolutely superbly and there is no shame in losing to them. "Now we have to make sure that we are right between now and playing Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday."
Colchester: Gerken, White, Mills (Richards 62), Brown, Barker, Duguid, Watson, Izzet, Jackson, Iwelumo, Cureton (Guy 90).
Subs Not Used: Davison, McLeod, Ephraim.
Booked: Iwelumo.
Goals: Richards 67.
Preston: Lonergan, Alexander, Chilvers, Wilson, Hill (Ormerod 80), Sedgwick, McKenna, Pugh, Lewis Neal (Whaley 65), Nugent, Ricketts.
Subs Not Used: Nash, St. Ledger, Mellor.
Booked: Nugent.
Att: 5,085
Ref: C Foy (Merseyside).
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