United line-up: Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless (Beall 69'), Preece, Charles, Kyd, Barnwell.
Sub not used: Wilson, Benjamin.
Ref: M E Pierce (Portsmouth).

The first half was pretty dire, contested by a Mansfield side who had lost their way to goal and a United side that seemed determined not to score. David Preece probably should have had a penalty as early as the third minute when he was bundled over in the box, but nothing was given. Then in the 16th minute Jamie Barnwell had a chance to fire home from the edge of the box but his shot was tame in the extreme and bobbled gently to the goalkeeper.

Everything changed at half time when a game that had kicked off in bright sunshine resumed under black skies as a hail storm pelted the Abbey Stadium and turned the pitch into a skating rink. The orange ball was called into use for the first time since December 1992 when a match against Blackburn Rovers was abandoned. Mansfield were missing their two top scorers and it showed as they provided no threat whatsoever.

Paul Wanless, who was doubtful before the game with a knee injury, was replaced by busy 'Billy' Beall on 69 minutes. Two minutes later on-loan striker Lee Charles got his reward for some good effort and movement when he marked his home debut with his first goal for United, heading home from very close range when a David Preece corner was flicked on by Barnwell.

There were boos when the 'lucky' orange ball was replaced with the original but Ian Ashbee added the second goal twelve minutes from time, bringing the ball forward and then firing home a screamer from 20 yards. David Preece was influential in midfield, showing his experience and class and Michael Kyd looked more like his old self. Kyd and Jamie Barnwell might have added to the goals but they were both slow to react when good passes set them up for clear-cut openings in front of goal.

Mansfield had no answer and Scott Barrett was not called upon to save a shot throught the match. The visitor's only shot in target came in the last minute when sub Darrell Clarke's drive was deflected by Andy Duncan for a corner, leaving United fans free to celebrate only their second win of the year - with the added bonus that Peterborough were beaten last night!

United captain John Taylor has recovered from illness but misses tomorrow's visit of Mansfield Town through a freak training ground accident. Manager Roy McFarland explained, "John just stepped on the ball and as he tried to steady himself he strained his groin.

"It's a blow for us because John's our only experienced striker, as well as being a leader on the field. We missed him in the matches at Cardiff and Rochdale when he was suffering from a bug, but it doesn't look as though he'll make the match tomorrow, or the one against Macclesfield on Tuesday night."

There are also worries over fellow striker Jamie Barnwell who faces a late test on ankle injury, Paul Wanless is rated only 50-50 after aggravating his knee injury at Rochdale and Andy Duncan is still doubtful with his thigh injury.

McFarland commented, "We'll just have to wait as late as possible before naming the side. It's going to be a tough game because Mansfield have had a couple of good results and may still have a glimmer of hope of getting to the play-offs. We need good performances in these two home games to keep our fans with us for the rest of the season."

QPR striker Lee Charles has made it clear that he hopes a successful loan spell with United could lead to a permanent move. Supporters could be forgiven for thinking that Charles was less than enthusiastic about the move after he failed to turn up for his medical and went missing last month. He has not elaborated upon his reasons, other than to confirm that his baby son was ill, but he stated this week: "I want first team football."

The 26-year-old told the CEN, "Roy McFarland has told me there's a good chance of that here, so it's up to me to play well enough for the club to want me after the loan spell, then hope we can do a deal."

This is only his second spell away from QPR, and he admits that he took time to get to grips with the game at Cardiff last weekend: "I felt a bit nervous at the start," he commented. "I went straight to the match without meeting any of the other players. They didn't know how I played and it was the same for me. But I think it went quite well. I probably had the best chance of the game, and I was a bit unlucky not to score.

"David Preece put me through. I hit the shot well and the keeper seemed to dive the wrong way, but the ball hit the inside of his leg. We didn't play that well at Rochdale, although there wasn't a lot in it. But it's probably not a bad thing to start a loan spell with a couple of away games to get used to playing in a new team. We have two home games coming up in a row now and I'm hoping to put on a good show for the fans. I only had a vague idea where Cambridge was before I signed, but I like it at the club.

"I've had a few days' training now and everybody's made me very welcome. When you've come from a bigger club I suppose there could be a bit of resentment among the other players, but I've not been aware of anything like that."

Hillingdon-born Charles arrived late in League football after years as a highly-rated striker in the non-League ranks. He says, "There was a lot of talk about this club and that club coming in for me, but it didn't happen until I was 23, although it was pretty exciting then when it was a club like QPR."

Charles probably clinched the transfer when he scored a hat-trick against QPR reserves in a pre-season friendly. "I got into the first team in my first season with them, and played a dozen times last year, but there is so much competition at a place like Loftus Road. To be honest, I was a bit disappointed I didn't get more games. When you are playing well in the reserves and the call doesn't come, it can get you down a bit.

"That's why I agreed to this move. It doesn't matter what club you are at, or what deal you might be on, what most players really want is to play football in the first team. Cardiff had Danny Hill there on loan from Tottenham. He's been in the Spurs reserves for about six years. I couldn't put up with that. So I haven't come to Cambridge just to go through the motions. I want to get my career moving again."

Any hopes that Cambridge United could sign Grant Brebner on a permanent deal receded this afternoon with the news that he has joined another club on loan. The Manchester United midfielder has returned to his birthplace of Edinburgh to join Scottish Premier Division bottom side Hibernian on a month's loan.

20-year-old Brebner spent a successful month on loan at the Abbey Stadium and Roy McFarland wanted to extend the loan, but the young Scot was recalled by the Premiership champions to go to Italy for an under-19 tournament. McFarland also tried to make the deal permanent but Alex Ferguson wanted Brebner back in Manchester to discuss his options, and one of those appears to have been the chance to join Hibernian on loan.

Old Trafford teammate Andy Duncan is halfway through his second month on loan in Cambridge, although he is currently sidelined with a thigh injury.

From the national news: Cambridge United are appealing to their supporters for information about fresh allegations of racist chanting against their own players. Strikers Michael Kyd and Jamie Barnwell claimed they were being targeted by United fans during the match at Cardiff.

Club secretary Steve Greenall said: "We support anti-racist campaigns and won't tolerate racist behaviour at this club."

(9am) Cambridge United today ended rumours that they will be allocating their Habbin Stand to Peterborough United when the sides meet in April. This follows a decision last season to hand over a significant area of the ground to Fulham fans and rumours began when a direct question was put to Chairman Reg Smart at last month's Annual General Meeting.

The club will not only keep the Habbin Stand as a home area, they are also offering discounts to to supporters who are either Season Ticket holders, or who obtain priority vouchers at this Saturday's game against Mansfield Town.

Steve Greenall

Secretary Steve Greenall welcomed the news, adding that he hoped that regular fans would take advantage of the voucher system, which would not only be beneficial financially to supporters, but would also ensure a bumper crowd against United's local rivals.

"The atmosphere at London Road last December was very exciting and we hope that our fans will now back the Club's decision by taking up the tickets. Terrace tickets for the game will be £10 but voucher holders and season ticket holders will be able to buy tickets for just £6."

Greenall also explained, "It was very clear to us that our fans were very much against conceding an advantage to Peterborough. We agree and we must now rely on those fans to snap up the tickets to back our judgement."

Tickets will go on sale from Monday 2nd March to voucher holders and to season ticket holders who wish to buy extra tickets for friends and family. Tickets will remain on sale at the discounted rate until the ticket office closes after the home match against Scunthorpe United on March 14th. After that, tickets will go on more general sale but Greenall hopes that Season Ticket holders and regulars will have snapped up most of the tickets by then.

So make sure you're there on Saturday to cheer the team on against Mansfield and get vouchers for your friends and family for the derby on April 11th!  Let's out-sing and out-play the POSH!

After last night's dismal defeat at Rochdale, Roy McFarland said that once again United were missing bite and the fighting spirit he has called for.

"We were not as competitive as we should have been," he told the CEN. "When we are fighting for second balls we are too often second best. That was a disappointment tonight, as it has been throughout the season. I have not seen us play that badly in a long time."

McFarland also warned that he will not be making wholesale changes despite the recent poor performances and the fact that United's last away win came at Leyton Orient in September. "Of the 18 games I think we have drawn half and we were in a position to win some of those. Our away performances have not been bad, it is just the results which have been poor.

"The players showed for half an hour tonight what they can do. They were in charge and if some of the chances had been taken it would be a different story. There is no point making changes. we need to take the chances we create. My problem is that we haven't got a prolific goalscorer. John Taylor wasn't available tonight through illness."

He also denied that motivating the players could become a problem, now that there is effectively nothing left to play for this season. "We want to win every game and finish as high as possible," he said. "We have got two tough home games now and we have to get up. I am building for next season and trying to get that spark. And," he added pointedly, "a number of players are playing for their contracts."

United line-up: Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Beall, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Preece (Wilde 79'), Charles, Kyd, Barnwell (Benjamin 73').
Sub not used: Wilson.
Ref: F G Stretton (Nottingham).

After a pretty poor display in the first half, during which Andy Gouck cracked the ball into the top left hand corner from 20 yards, United improved and Rochdale lived dangerously for a time. Trevor Benjamin was added to the fray in place of Jamie Barnwell with about twenty minutes to go but his muscular presence was not enough to prevent Rochdale scoring again. Andy Gouck got his second goal after 77 minutes, scoring from three yards out after a deep centre from the left was nodded down by Mark Stuart. Defender Marc Joseph slipped just as he might have made the vital tackle.

In an endlessly familiar tale, United once again enjoyed plenty of possession and chances but were slightly unfortunate as the busy forwards failed to find the breakthrough. The excellent 'Billy' Beall had our best chance eight minutes into the second half when his shot hit the bar and Paul Wanless just failed to connect with the rebound. The lively front line of Kyd, Charles and Barnwell all had chances in a promising spell just before Gouck's second goal provided the sucker punch. David Preece made way for the younger legs of Adam Wilde after the goal but United plunge to 20th in the table after this defeat.

Paul Wanless and on-loan defender Andy Duncan travelled with the squad and face late fitness tests before Roy McFarland will decide whether to risk them in tonight's match. Duncan has been carrying a thigh strain for two weeks and it flared up after the 0-0 draw at Cardiff on Saturday, while Wanless hobbled off with a dead-leg after 35 minutes.

Roy McFarland explained, "Both of them will be travelling up with us and we will leave the decision as late as possible. They have both done well recently and are important players for us. Andy's thigh flared up after Saturday's match, but it has settled down since and I'm hopeful he will make it. It's hard to say with Paul at this stage."

Left-back Paul Wilson is available again after serving a two match suspension and he could replace Duncan if he is not fit, while Billy Beall did well on Saturday after replacing Wanless. The versatile Ian Ashbee provides another option as he could drop back from midfield.

McFarland is keen to gain some revenge against the Rochdale after they were responsible for finally ending United's play-off hopes in the penultimate game of last season. "We went up there on the second to last Saturday needing a win and they beat us 3-0, so we have still got that in the back of our throats," he told the CEN. "We didn't play well then, so it would be nice to put that ghost away."

The manager confirmed that he will stick with the three man strike force that started at Cardiff on Saturday: "I was very pleased with the three players up front -- they caused a lot of trouble," he said. "We have been in good positions to win games away from home several times and not managed it, but it will come soon."

Kyd - heard racist

Michael Kyd was singled out for racist abuse by a United supporter during Saturday's match at Cardiff and the club are trying to identify the offender. Dubutant Lee Charles, who played alongside Kyd in the U's attack, was the subject of racist chanting from the home fans throughout the match but Kyd clearly heard abuse of a racist nature from one of his own 'supporters'.

Roy McFarland was angry and shocked at the incident and told the Cambridge Evening News, "I find it hard to believe one of our own fans could have done it, but it came from our section of the crowd and, from what I can gather, there are people who know who the culprit is.

"I don't want anybody like that anywhere near our matches, home or away. It should be pretty clear that racism has nothing to do with Cambridge United. Five of our squad at Cardiff were black players, including the entire forward line. Michael Kyd had a good game, and it must have been awful for the lad to hear what was shouted at him from the United section of the ground."

It was a disappointing incident during a disappointing afternoon but midfielder Paul Wanless, who had to limp out of the action ten minutes before half time, commented, "I thought we played well. We should have won it, we certainly had more and better chances than Cardiff. But it just isn't going for us away from home."

Wanless suffered a kick on the knee and is currently a doubt for tomorrow's trip to Rochdale.

United line-up: Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless (Beall 37'), Preece (Wilde 87'), Charles, Kyd, Barnwell.
Sub not used: Benjamin.
Booked: Campbell (foul 73'), Ashbee (kicking ball away).
Ref: E Lomas (Manchester).

United's performance was slightly better than of late and the U's were well on top in the first half. Jamie Barnwell spurned an excellent chance to put the U's ahead after just 21 seconds, missing the proverbial sitter from eight yards. Michael Kyd used his power to carve through the Cardiff defence on the right before crossing low into Barnwell's path, but he sliced his shot inches wide. The home side suffered an early blow when striker Carl Dale was carried off injured and they lacked a real cutting edge without him, although Scott Barrett had to be alert to deny Steve White when he burst through in the eighth minute.

After fifteen minutes United had another good chance when Andy Duncan crossed towards Wanless and Barnwell on the far post. They were both unmarked and Wanless went for the header when Barnwell was better placed, and his effort soared across the goal and over the bar. Debutant Lee Charles looked lively throughout as did Danny Hill for Cardiff, also making his debut after arriving on loan from Spurs.

Paul Wanless had a couple of chances to score but then limped off injured ten minutes before half-time. He was replaced by Billy Beall, who put in another busy and battling performance. At about the same time David Preece, who put in a good all-round performance, nicked the ball from Hill as he was poised to shoot for goal from close-range.

In the second half the game was more even, although United still looked more threatening without ever really testing Hallworth, the City goalkeeper. David Preece provided an excellent through ball in the 61st minute to leave Charles one on one with the keeper, but he obviously thought he had less time than he did when he aimed his shot too close to Hallworth who saved well. Charles faded late on through lack of first team action and the game petered out in the rain. Adam Wilde replaced Preece three minutes from time to double his senior appearances.

Both teams were boo-ed off by a minority of fans after an ultimately disappointing outcome for both clubs. However Lee Charles was a ray of hope for United, a tall, pacy striker with a good first touch, and he made a promising debut before fading late on.

The nature of Paul Wanless' injury is not yet known but one of the fans who travelled to see the match said he looked to be in a lot of pain as he watched the second half with them. This draw stretches United's run without an away win to seventeen games.

Queens Park Rangers striker Lee Charles has finally signed for Cambridge United, three weeks after he was initially expected in Cambridge for his medical! The surprise signing comes after talks this week and a change of heart by the 26-year-old, and he is set to lead the United attack at Cardiff City tomorrow.

Roy McFarland explained: "I believe interest from Brentford was probably behind the deal going wrong last time. I've talked to the player and the club and whereas we were going for a permanent signing before, we've agreed on a month's loan at the moment. It's probably the best way to proceed with it."

Charles joined QPR from non-league Chertsey in August 1995 for £67,500. The following month the Hillingdon-born forward was loaned to Barnet, where he made his League debut at the age of 23 and scored three goals in two League appearances. For QPR in the first division he has made a total of 16 League appearances, ten from the bench, and scored once. He is described as a confident forward with good first touch and pace, who is always keen to take on his opponents.

Midfielder Billy Beall, the subject of a recent enquiry by Leyton Orient, returns from suspension and winger Adam Wilde has also been added to the squad. The 18-year-old is recalled from his loan at Kings Lynn following an impressive performance for United reserves in midweek, and Roy McFarland explained, "We have Adam on non-contract terms, so that we can let him have experience elsewhere, but bring him back in at short notice."

Andy Duncan, into his second month on loan from Manchester United reserves, is struggling to overcome a groin strain and faces a late fitness test before tomorrow's game at Ninian Park. The recent crop of injuries has allowed the 20-year-old Geordie to make six appearances for the U's, including last Friday's televised game, and he told the Cambridge Evening News how much he is enjoying his spell at the Abbey Stadium.

"It's exciting to run out here," he explained. "Hearing the fans, and knowing you are playing for League points gives you a buzz. I'd never experienced that before, playing for Manchester United's 'A' team or the reserves. It's a different world here, but it's the real world. When you see how much it means to the fans it gives you that extra incentive you need.

"At Man U the Lancashire League side and the reserves usually finish first or second in the table. And to be honest you go out in a lot of matches knowing you are going to win. It can feel a bit flat."

His team-mate Grant Brebner was recalled by Manchester United so he could take part in an under-19s tournament in Italy, but Duncan is not envious of the Scot. "I played in it last year," he said. "The pitch wasn't too good, and it was 15 minutes each way games. I'd much rather be here in Cambridge. League experience is what I need now. I don't know what's going to happen when my second month is up, but I'm enjoying it here at the moment. I just wish we could have got a few more points to put the play-offs in sight. The team have played well generally, but we have let some sloppy goals in. Rotherham was unbelievable."

Duncan and his Cambridge United team-mates can expect a tough match against a Cardiff City revitalised by the arrival of new manager Frank Burrows. They reacted to his appointment by beating Mansfield 4-1 on Tuesday, and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Danny Hill has now joined them on loan.

United have only won one game on their travels this season, a statistic that has seriously undermined any promotion bid. McFarland said: "We are due an away win because we haven't had one since September, but it'll be difficult."

United squad: Barrett, Chenery, Joseph, Duncan, Campbell, Ashbee, Wanless, Beall, Barnwell, Kyd, Rees, Wilde, Benjamin, Williamson, Taylor, Marshall.

Martin Butler

Injured striker Martin Butler suffered another setback this week as he tries to hit the comeback trail. Butler, who last played for United on Boxing Day, saw a specialist about his niggling knee problem and serious damage has been ruled out, but there is still no firm date for his return.

Roy McFarland reported, "Martin had some reaction behind both knees. The initial trouble was slight cartilage damage, but in trying to get back to fitness he has strained both knees. We've told him to take a short break, then he'll build up more gradually next week. It's wrecked the lad's season, and in my opinion it all goes back to that sending off at Stevenage.

"He was terrorising their defence in that game, and played well in the couple of League matches after it. But the three match suspension coming at that time of the year meant he didn't play for almost three weeks, and it was when he was getting fit after the lay-off that he hurt the knee."

Veteran defender Colin Foster is another first team regular who has seen a specialist as he struggles to recover from injury. The 33-year-old has missed the last six matches because of calf strains, and is still not back in full training. McFarland said: "We have missed experienced players, but it does provide opportunities for others. It makes us take a look at the fringe players in League games, and often something positive can come out of it."

Meanwhile ex-United manager Tommy Taylor has returned to the club asking about more players. Roy McFarland told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire that Leyton Orient are still interested in 'Billy' Beall and Taylor has now made an enquiry about midfield powerhouse Paul Wanless. McFarland added that Wanless is the last player he would want to sell and the CEN reports that no firm bid has been received for either player.

The Football Association have asked for comments from Cambridge United about criticism of a referee in the match programme. Club secretary Steve Greenall says he stands by the article concerning referee Brian Coddington's performance at the Stevenage FA Cup replay, and supports the view of programme writer Mark Johnson.

Steve Greenall

Greenall told the CEN: "We received a copy of the article back from the FA with the instruction, 'could we have your observations on this within seven days.' In his Travellers' Tales column Mark Johnson wrote, 'I have been less than impressed with several referees, but Mr Coddington's performance made them look world class'."

He continued, "I don't think anybody could have been impressed with Mr Coddington in that match, and in my opinion it was justified criticism."

Coddington sent off Martin Butler and Paul Wanless in the first half of the second round replay at Stevenage, and the club had an appeal turned down over Wanless' controversial dismissal. His performance over both matches drove United to write to the FA requesting he was never again put in charge of one of the matches.

Greenall added: "That was one of several 'observations' about the Stevenage game we made in a letter to the FA in January. But we haven't received a reply yet, let alone 'within seven days'. I hope the FA are not suggesting referees should be above criticism. If players don't perform well, or if I as secretary make a mistake we all expect some criticism. The same should apply to match officials. In our opinion Mr Coddington had a 'bad day at the office' and we should have the right to express it, providing it is not a personal attack on the official, or libelous in any way, which this article was not."

Midfielder Jason Rees staked his claim for a recall to the first team squad with a good display for the reserves last night. United's second string drew 0-0 in their Capital League match at Reading last night, and goalkeeper Shaun Marshall was singled out for praise after denying a strong Reading side.

Coach David Preece said, "Shaun is coming on well, he's been impressive over the last couple of months."

Further to the news that 'Billy' Beall has been the subject of another enquiry by Leyton Orient manager Tommy Taylor, it emerged today that the little midfielder's contract expires in the summer and he has twice refused to sign a new deal. Beall said today he would not be signing a new deal this season, although he added that he was not particularly interested in following Shaun Howes, Tony Richards and Matt Joseph to Orient.

'Billy' Beall

"I just want to keep my options open like Micah Hyde and the other lads did last summer," Beall told the Cambridge Evening News. "It wasn't a bad offer United made me, but I don't see any sense in rushing to sign anything at this stage. It's not a case of wanting to get away from United, but I'd like to play at a higher level if possible, so I want to see what's around at the end of the season."

The 20-year-old is a product of United's youth scheme and he is popular with the supporters due to his all-action style, reminiscent of United legend Steve Spriggs. Beall was kept on the sidelines early in the season by new signing Jason Rees, but he battled his way back into the first team when Rees' form dipped and he enjoyed an unbroken run in the side until his current suspension.

Roy McFarland commented: "Billy has twice rejected the offer of a new contract which is disappointing. Orient have been in touch, but haven't put an offer to us as yet."

Tommy Taylor has followed up his early season interest with another enquiry about Beall, but he has not made a firm bid.

Looking back to Friday's match, striker Michael Kyd is in no doubt that United should have had a penalty kick when he was felled late in the game: "He took my legs as I tried to get around him," he said, "but it was a night when we didn't get much from the referee."

Manager McFarland declared himself happy with one half of his team's performance in the 1-1 with Lincoln. He said, "We played some good football in the first half, but we couldn't keep possession long enough in the second. The forwards weren't holding the ball up, and the pressure built up against us. Lincoln didn't give us any problems when it came to football, it was just the set-pieces which created the danger, as we expected. We stood up well to it, but one long throw got through. It probably wasn't the best of matches for television, but you couldn't say that was our fault."

The youth team lost 4-1 at Leyton Orient in the South East Counties League and coach Dave Batch admitted his side were lucky to escape with that scoreline: "We were very poor in almost every department," he said. "We had an illness bug go through the youth team in the week and two or three had not trained at all and five or six had just one day training. That is a little bit of a reason for their performance, but I have to say we were poor and lucky it was only 4-1."

Michael Barrows was United's scorer, hitting his goal at the beginning of the second half after Orient went in 2-0 up. Mildenhall's teenage striker Peter Knox had a trial with the youth team in the morning before appearing for his side in the afternoon as a second half substitute. Knox has been invited back to United for more trials.

United's hosts on Saturday, Cardiff City, have appointed Frank Burrows as their new manager. His first match in charge will be against Mansfield tomorrow.

Roy McFarland revealed after last night's match that Leyton Orient have enquired about 'Billy' Beall. It is not the first time that Tommy Taylor has asked about the diminutive midfielder, who broke into the first team under the former United manager, but it is not known whether he has received any encouragement.

Taylor has already recruited Shaun Howes, Tony Richards and Matt Joseph who played under him at United.

Winger Adam Wilde has joined Kings Lynn on loan. Roy McFarland told the CEN that the 18-year-old needs some 'toughening up' but he made it clear that he has plans for Wilde next season.

United line-up: Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Preece, Taylor (Benjamin 83'), Kyd, Barnwell (Williamson 90').
Sub not used: Hayes.
Ref: Paul Danson

United lined up in the 4-3-3 formation that yielded a 0-0 draw at Sincil Bank earlier in the season, with the pace of Jamie Barnwell and Michael Kyd supporting John Taylor. Jamie Campbell - playing his 150th League game - moved over to fill Paul Wilson's left back slot and Ian Ashbee, another versatile player, played in midfield instead of central defence.

Michael Kyd got the game off to an excellent start when after just four minutes he got on the end of a John Taylor flick-on and his rocket shot from outside the area hit the angle. Ian Ashbee reacted quickly to connect with the rebound but his shot was just wide. Lincoln dominated possession for the first 20 minutes and the United defence had to deal with a barrage of high balls and long throws into the box, but the U's persevered with their passing game and took the lead in the 25th minute.

Ben Chenery

The move started wide on the left just inside United's half when player-coach David Preece collected the ball, advanced and fed it through to Paul Wanless. The powerful midfielder took the ball forward and passed it to Ashbee on his right, who again advanced and then fed it wide to the on-running Ben Chenery. The right-back took the ball forward to the corner of the penalty area and launched a deceptive cross into the box that curled into the net, leaving Barry Richardson clutching at fresh air as he back-pedalled into the net.

Four minutes later Preece started another good move from the halfway line when he passed to Paul Wanless who advanced before feeding the ball to Taylor, but the big forward ran at goal only to shoot over the bar. United continued to defend well against the barrage of throw-ins from the right, with Marc Joseph having a very good game in the centre of defence. After one brave tackle he had to leave the pitch for a couple of minutes of treatment from Ken Steggles and Taylor dropped back into defence to help with the aerial bombardment.

There was only one team trying to play football tonight and during the first half Sky TV commentator Alan Brazil was prompted to say, "Watching this kind of direct football makes Wimbledon look like Real Madrid"!

Four minutes before half-time Taylor was back in attack to head a Preece free kick just over the bar, and United continued to play football while Lincoln's tactics were to get the ball forward by the most direct option. They were having limited success with their long throws into the box, possibly due to the wide Abbey Stadium pitch, and the first time they varied it by throwing it short and crossing into the box, Scott Barrett was alert and well positioned to save a header from Brown.

That was the last attack of the first half but a former United player was put well and truly on the spot by Sky TV reporter Alan Bentley during the interval. Danny Granville, who left the Abbey to join Chelsea last Match in a £350,000 transfer, was watching the game and said he thought United deserved to be in the lead, but then the questioning turned to Ruud Gullit's departure from Chelsea yesterday. Granville had to deflect questions about what the Chelsea squad thought about the matter and was suitably vague in the face of some pointed questions, saying they would have to "wait and see" how things developed under new player-boss Gianluca Vialli.

It was more of the same after the break as Lincoln came out after an ear-bashing from Beck and caused United some jittery moments from the kick-off. The U's were not helped by referee Paul Danson who awarded a corner to the Imps when it was clearly a goal-kick, but the ball was cleared from danger.

United were noticeably quick with the ball in this half, with lots of first-time passing and good movement off the ball, and Barnwell and Kyd caught the eye with their pace and running. Lincoln kept on with their game plan and passed up a glorious chance to equalise in the 49th minute when the impressive Dean Walling raced into the box to meet a corner kick, but his downward header was too powerfully hit and it bounced up and over the crossbar.

John Beck revealed that at half-time he instructed his players to mark man-for-man in midfield and that seemed to mean that David Preece got clattered every time he held onto the ball for more than two seconds! In the 55th minute Thorpe was booked for a late and clumsy tackle on Preece, but two minutes later the Imps were level.

From yet another long throw-in by Fleming, Colin Alcide rose at the near post and his back header looped over Barrett and into the far corner. It was probably about as intentional a goal as Chenery's, but it counted just the same. United could have gone ahead again within a minute as Jamie Barnwell stuck out a leg to connect with a cross, but the ball went over the bar from point-blank range.

Kyd - clear penalty

Referee Danson annoyed the home fans again by awarding Lincoln another corner instead of what was clearly a goal kick, and it was to the great credit of United's young defence that they cleared yet another gift to the visitors. Joseph and Andy Duncan coped well with the Lincoln air force and Jamie Campbell looked cool and accomplished at left-back, but Mr Danson was to plumb new depths in the 69th minute when Michael Kyd was quite clearly felled in the box.

The young forward was tussling with Austin as he raced towards goal, and he was bundled over on the edge of the box only to leap to his feet and run after the ball. The grounded Austin quite clearly lunged at him and lifted him off his feet - in full view of Danson and his assistant - but incredibly nothing was given. You could sense from that point that United would get nothing more from tonight's game!

In the 72nd minute John Taylor got on the end of a Barnwell cross but Richardson saved bravely to clear the danger, and four minutes later at the other end Marc Joseph intercepted Lee Thorpe's run in time to allow Barrett to safely collect the ball. Mark Hone was booked for his second late tackle on the diminutive David Preece, who will surely be black and blue after his treatment in the second half.

In the 80th minute Preece took only United's second corner of the evening. Although Taylor rose well the ball was beaten away to the edge of the box where Kyd collected it and fired a shot in from 18 yards, but it was always rising and cleared the bar. Preece was then again clattered by Hone as the United supporters cheered the appearance of Trevor Benjamin on the sideline, ready to enter the fray. The big teenager replaced Taylor in the 83rd minute and did his usual job of chasing lost causes and keeping the Imps defence on their toes, but two minutes later a mistake by Andy Duncan allowed Brown to get a good cross into the box. Fortunately it was too long for Alcide.

The introduction of Benjamin coincided with a period of late pressure for United and in the 86th minute Michael Kyd won our third corner. Preece delivered another good cross but Richardson commanded his box well and took the ball. Another corner a minute later came to nothing and then in the 89th minute Preece played Barnwell in on the right, and the forward had a shot at goal from just inside the box. He seemed to stretch and injure himself slightly in the process, so the waiting Davey Williamson replaced him with just minutes to go.

Like Benjamin, Williamson made the most of his time on the pitch to run at the Lincoln defence and cause as many problems as he could. Two minutes into injury time Benjamin caused a few flutters in the Imps defence when he charged down a goal kick, but unfortunately there was no repeat of his FA Cup goal against Plymouth and the ball went for a throw-in. There was time for one more corner as United kept up their late pressure, and it was good to see that United had no intentions of conceding a costly late goal tonight.

After the game Ben Chenery was honest enough to admit that he had not intended to shoot at goal when he scored, describing it as a cross and adding, "I didn't hit it as well as I hoped and it went in!" Lincoln, he said, were "very difficult, you're always under pressure."

The first question asked of Roy McFarland was about the incident when Michael Kyd was brought down in the box. "I thought it was a penalty," he said straightaway. "The referee and linesman were both on that side and I'm surprised they didn't see it."

On the overall performance he said he was pleased with his team's performance before the break, but lamented the fact that in the second half Lincoln were able to break up play and counter-attack so often: "In the second half we failed to keep the ball in their half."

Asked his opinion on Lincoln's style of play he shrugged, "I just wonder what their players do day in, day out! It's not my style of football. I like to get it down and play. They wouldn't let us get it down and play."

John Beck admitted after the game that United had dominated the midfield in the first half as he was caught out by the change to a 4-3-3 formation, but he explained that in the second half he had pushed an extra man into midfield so his players were "making contact". David Preece would certainly testify that they were making contact!

Roy McFarland was asked what the rest of the season holds for Cambridge United and he replied, "We're starting to build again." He explained that replacing the likes of Danny Granville, Jody Craddock and Micah Hyde with free transfer players has had a huge effect on the team. "All credit to the players who have come in and worked hard," he said, while adding that he will probably take the opportunity to give the young players a chance between now and the end of the season.

Cambridge United and local rivals Peterborough United (who lost at to bottom club Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday, lest we forget!!) are both reported to be watching teenage prospect Richard McPartlin. The young Cambridge City defender has been named in the England Under-18 squad to face Belgium later this month, after making his debut as a late substitute on Saturday and scoring a goal.

City youth team manager Jeremy George said: "He's going to be a top centre half because he's strong and wins the ball."

The reserves were in Capital League action at Rushden & Diamonds last night and lost 1-0. It was a tight affair fought largely in midfield, scoring chances were limited and the goal came from the penalty spot. Martin Butler failed a fitness test and is now very unlikely to feature tomorrow night.

Former U's star Dion Dublin played the full 90 minutes for England against Chile last night, but unfortunately it was not to be a repeat of his last Wembley appearance when he scored the winner for United in the play-off final. Chile ran out 2-0 winners thanks to a wonder goal and a penalty by Marcelo Salas. Dublin and fellow debutant Michael Owen linked up well in attack but their supply was poor and the team performance overall was disappointing. The big centre-forward is the second former United player to represent England at senior level, after Andy Sinton.

Cambridge United's bid for Manchester United midfielder Grant Brebner has attracted the attention of the national news services and Roy McFarland is quoted saying, "I spoke to Alex (Ferguson) last week and put it to him what I would like to do. He said he wanted to speak to the boy, but he's now gone to Italy and I've not heard from them since."

There was definite amusement among Cambridge United supporters last night when local rivals Peterborough United were beaten at home by Doncaster Rovers. The league's basement club, who were a little unlucky to leave the Abbey Stadium empty handed on Saturday, took the points with a 90th minute goal.

Preparations are well underway for the arrival of Sky TV cameras ahead of Friday night's televised match, when Lincoln City are the visitors. In his programme notes on Saturday, club secretary Steve Greenall revealed that of all the clubs outside the top two divisions, we are one of only two clubs to be revisited.

He added, "That, we were told, was due in no small part to the efficiency of our handling of their visit last time around. That is very pleasing as we always believed that a little planning would give us the upper hand if it came to any decision on Sky's part as to where to go each season. We look forward to having the crew here next week."

The editor of the Abbey Rabbit has revealed a unusual promotion for the latest edition of the Cambridge United fanzine. Issue 50 will be on sale on Friday night, when a balloon release is planned in front of Sky's cameras to support the 'Fans United' event at Gillingham the following day. Steve Jillings has secured a supply of balloons and will be giving a free copy of the new Abbey Rabbit to anyone buying a balloon for a quid!

Roy McFarland has had to put his hopes of signing Manchester United midfielder Grant Brebner on hold. The young Scot's loan period expired after Saturday's match and the Premiership champions have recalled him to play for a young Reds side in an international tournament in Italy.

Disappointed United manager Roy McFarland said: "The timing of the trip couldn't be worse for us. Everything is put on ice now. I would have thought continuing to play League football would have been the best thing for Grant at this stage of his career, but there is nothing we can do about it.

"The tournament is for a week, unless Manchester United reach the finals, so it could be a fortnight before Grant is back in this country. We'll try to pick the deal up again at that point, but it's sad for the club and our supporters that something like this has taken the lad away."

Martin Butler

However there is better news of striker Martin Butler, who has been sidelined since Boxing Day with cartilage trouble. The summer signing from Walsall is due to make his comeback in the reserves at Rushden and Diamonds tomorrow night, and if he survives that game with no ill-effects he could return to the first team for Friday's televised home game against Lincoln City.

Young defender Ian Ashbee is also back in training after suffering with a virus, but veteran colleague Colin Foster will see a specialist about the calf injury that has kept him out of action for a month.

Meanwhile defender Dave Thompson, who left United last week by mutual consent, has joined non-League Yeovil Town for the rest of the season.

Roy McFarland has told Manchester United counterpart Alex Ferguson that he wants to keep on-loan midfielder Grant Brebner. The 20-year-old Scotland Under-21 international has shown his class and become a crowd favourite during his month in Cambridge and McFarland wants to buy him, or at least extend his loan.

However Ferguson wants the Edinburgh-born youngster back in Manchester for talks about his future, although he has agreed to extend defender Andy Duncan's loan by another month. Ferguson apparently wants to discuss the other options open to Brebner and McFarland knows he is not the only manager who would like to sign the gifted youngster.

He told the Cambridge Evening News: "Since we've given Grant his League debut other clubs have become more interested in him. I was at a reserve match last week and a scout for a top first division club asked me about him.

"We want to keep the lad with us. He's done well, so we've asked to extend the loan, and also made an offer to Alex to buy him. Grant knows he is likely to get regular first team football with us, whereas he couldn't guarantee that with some higher division sides. But all we can do at the moment is wait on the outcome of the talks at Old Trafford."

On Saturday's victory over bottom club Doncaster Rovers, McFarland added: "There was a pressure in playing a team who had not had an away win all season. I think everybody was too aware that if we'd lost our season would have collapsed completely. There was a tension there which affected us badly in the first half. Once we got the equaliser early in the second half I always thought we could go on and win it, although we missed chances before getting the winner."

The youth team had to include four schoolboys in the side that lost 1-0 at Crystal Palace on Saturday. The squad was decimated by illness and injury during the week and manager David Batch explained, "We had to change the system around because we simply didn't have enough defenders to play the way we normally do."

He added, "In the first half we played very well, created two or three good chances and should have scored. But in the second half we were very poor. That could be down to inexperience, or tiredness on the part of the second years."

United line-up: Barrett, Preece (Hayes 80'), Wilson, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Brebner, Taylor, Kyd, Youngs (Barnwell 45').
Sub not used: Williamson.
Booked: Wanless (foul 65')
Ref: G Singh.

Roy McFarland made three changes to the team beaten at Barnet last week, as he experimented with a 4-4-2 formation. David Preece came in for Ben Chenery, Michael Kyd replaced Jamie Barnwell and youngster Tom Youngs replaced the suspended 'Billy' Beall.

The first half was diabolical as Doncaster dominated and United struggled to produce three chances throughout. People were already on their way to buy the now famous bacon rolls when Rovers took the lead in the 44th minute, courtesy of Padi Wilson. Rovers broke out after a United corner and Wilson beat Marc Joseph to slide the ball home, past Jamie Campbell who somehow ran over the ball without stopping it. It was not until a few seconds before half time that a Michael Kyd header forced the first save of the day from Rovers goalkeeper Craig Davis, and the disappointing U's were booed off at the half-time whistle.

John Taylor

No doubt Roy McFarland had one or two words to say to his team and the result was that United came back from behind to earn the points. He immediately sent on the pacy Jamie Barnwell for Youngs to add some more attacking threat and first John Taylor remembered the way to goal by levelling the scores in the 54th minute. He met Michael Kyd's low centre and shot inside the near post from 12 yards, his ninth goal of the season.

Taylor went on to squander several further chances but the winner came when Doncaster failed to clear a United corner, substitute Adi Hayes headed the ball back in and Paul Wanless turned on the edge of the box and volleyed the ball under the crossbar. United could have thrown it away at the death when orange-haired substitute Price Moncrieffe forced a brave save from Scott Barrett in injury time.

This win was not as convincing as we might have liked but it was very welcome nonetheless. The three points could well be a vital boost for confidence ahead of next Friday's televised home game against high-flying Lincoln City.

Roy McFarland pledged his future to Cambridge United by agreeing a contract this week, and now he is asking for some patience and understanding from the fans. There were calls of 'McFarland out' from a small minority during last Saturday's defeat at Barnet, but McFarland says he understands their frustration.

"I'm well aware of the disappointment of the supporters," he told the Cambridge Evening News. "But nobody is more disappointed with the way the results have gone than me, David Preece and the players. For me, Rotherham just about summed up our season. We played well for virtually all of the game then saw a win turn into a draw in the last couple of minutes.

"Some of the directors have a lot of money tied up in the football club, people should be aware of that, but they are not in a position where they can hand over £200,000 or £300,000 for players. We have some money to spend, but we have to be sure we get full value for it. We've seen plenty of plus signs in the squad, but there are minuses we haven't yet been able to deal with. That's why it's vital our supporters stick with us while we build. If you haven't got much money you need time."

The board have given him the time and, importantly, McFarland has the backing of his players. Recently his skipper John Taylor and crowd favourite Paul Wanless have both gone out of their way to state that he he is one of the best managers with whom they have worked.

Veteran John Taylor stressed, "It's us who have let him down. We've got to realise that and make up for it."

United are without a win in the six games since Boxing Day, and Taylor has called for more grit and determination from a side that has shown they can match any in the division for skill. McFarland knows that and is still looking for new players to add the necessary skills to the existing blend.

Tomorrow's team is likely to be largely unchanged as although Ian Ashbee is slowly recovering from a virus, he is unlikely to be available and Martin Butler and Colin Foster are both extremely unlikely to recover from their injuries.

Barnet defender David McDonald has joined Cambridge United on trial.

Chairman Reg Smart has confirmed that he and his board believe Roy McFarland is the man to achieve success with Cambridge United, given time. He did admit to telling the manager that he was disappointed with the lack of success during his fifteen months in the job, but stressed that McFarland would be given time to put things right.

"Roy is not on a short-term trial," Mr Smart told the Cambridge Evening News. "I told him I was disappointed with the fact that we didn't look like reaching the play-offs. He accepted the criticism, and I thought that was brilliant. I love working with the guy. He knows the financial problems we have. Despite that, we believe we can get things going in the right direction."

Smart said he expected McFarland's contract to be signed next week when it came back from the solicitors.

Meanwhile there have been some rumours that a new player could be arriving at the Abbey in time for Saturday's match, when bottom club Doncaster Rovers are the visitors.

Former United striker Dion Dublin continued his incredible week by being awarded the Carling Player of the Month today, just three days after celebrating his first England call-up.

Cambridge United announced this morning that Roy McFarland has agreed the terms of a contract to manage United to the end of next season. Both parties are delighted to have settled the matter which has been unresolved for fifteen months, and has caused recent intense speculation about McFarland's future at the club.

Roy McFarland

McFarland said today, "I am pleased. The contract has been on the table for a long, long time and there were just one or two things of contention between both parties and we are pleased they are resolved."

Looking to the future he made it clear he is under no illusions as to the size of his task: "There is a job to do and I said when I came here that it could take two or three years to sort it out. When I came I thought the club had some good young players, it was one of the reasons I came here, but unfortunately I was unable to persuade them to stay.

"So we lost our best players - we wish them well, they have done very well at their new clubs - and that left us a little bit short. It's been hard to fill the holes as they were good players," McFarland admits, referring to the likes of Chelsea's England Under-21 international Danny Granville, Sunderland defender Jody Craddock who was tipped for England honours by teammate Richard Ord last weekend, and Micah Hyde, the former United skipper who looks certain to win promotion with Watford this season. Another member of that team, Matt Joseph, joined Leyton Orient last month.

McFarland has made it a priority to secure his best players on long contracts, with the likes of Michael Kyd and Marc Joseph already signed up until the turn of the century. He hints at regret that Tommy Taylor did not do the same: "Had we been a little more professional, a little more determined to hang onto those boys, we might have persuaded them to stay. But I know of the constraints, I accepted those terms, but there is little doubt that if we had the money we could certainly strengthen this side."

He is currently trying to persuade Alex Ferguson to either extend Grant Brebner's loan beyond a month, which expires after the game against Doncaster on Saturday, or to sell the young Scot. Brebner has played in every game since arriving from Manchester United's reserves and has clearly impressed McFarland, but Ferguson is apparently reluctant to allow the 20-year-old to stay any longer.

Another Manchester United player, defender Tommy Smith, played for the reserves at Welling on Monday night. He joined the club on trial last week having recovered from a long term injury.

An exclusive interview with Roy can be heard on United's Abbey Update line (0891 555885) today.

A young United youth side were beaten 2-1 by Diss Town last night in the Eastern Junior Plate.

The latest on the Roy McFarland front comes from tonight's Cambridge Evening News. Apparently a statement is expected from the club after Roy Mcfarland was asked to attend last night's board meeting instead of taking the reserve team to Welling United. The meeting went on late into the night but as he arrived for the meeting Reg Smart said it was time for a decision to be made for the future, following the manager`s fifteen months spell without a contract.

Neither McFarland or Smart were available for comment this morning, although McFarland has always answered press queries before starting training at 10:30am. Player-coach David Preece said he was unable to contact McFarland last night to give him his report of the reserve match at Welling United.

"I tried a couple of times," he said. "But they must have been having a late session. I've no idea what might have happened."

The reserves drew 2-2, the goals coming from Tom Youngs and an own goal.

The club received some welcome news this morning. As well as being the best ground for away supporters, Cambridge United also have the best food of any football ground in the country, according to the new Colman's Football Food Guide. A delegation from the club received the award at the prestigious 'Ivy' restaurant in London at a special breakfast reception this morning.

At the beginning of the season Total Football magazine named the Abbey Stadium the best ground in the country for travelling supporters, citing the great food and friendly Police and stewards as the best in the country. This new survey, published today, tested the refreshments on offer at every league ground in England and Wales this season and the tasters pronounced themselves 'well chuffed with the Cornish pasties' at the Abbey Stadium. Huddersfield and Richdale were second and third.

Supporters planning away trips were urged, if possible, to sample the food on offer at Cambridge United, whose matchless bacon rolls make the club overall winners. The review cited a winning combination of friendly service and quality food at a reasonable price, and concluded 'if only Bergkamp, Zola and Giggs decided to ply their trade at the Abbey, this supporting life would be perfect indeed'.

A team of more than 40 tasters, who claim to have around 750 years' worth of football watching between them, have cruised the kiosks at 91 grounds including Wembley and between them ate 323 pies, along with 185 hot dogs, 291 burgers and 144 portions of chips. All at a total cost of 15 upset stomachs!

But the Guide's deputy editor Eddie Blower said of the Abbey catering: "All three of our tasters were delighted at the quality of the food and the reasonable prices. The bacon rolls with good back bacon were delicious, and the Cornish pasties excellent. People were expecting one of the big Premiership clubs to win this award, but Cambridge proved small can be beautiful. The wafting smell of the bacon as the sun set over the stadium was idyllic."

United's commercial manager, Carla Frediani, said the secret of the club's success was their bacon roll - described by the guide as a 'spectacular high spot'. She said, "We use best back bacon and put two rashers into each roll. The other thing is the smell. If you cook bacon the smell just gets to everyone. I'm a vegetarian but even I get tempted."

The news even earned several minutes of national TV today, and after collecting the award Carla explained that after taking the catering back 'in-house' the club had asked the supporters what they wanted. Bacon rolls and pies were high on the wish-list and United are now producing the best in the land!

But the guide makes pretty grim reading for Premiership clubs, which, despite the money many have spent on their grounds, have no representatives in the Top 10 and only four feature in the Top 20 - Manchester United, Coventry, Bolton and West Ham. Chelsea and Tottenham are 79th and 86th respectively out of the 93 venues in the poll, which puts Leyton Orient at rock bottom 93rd and Wembley in 89th position.

Peterborough United, whose chairman Peter Boizot owns the Pizza Express chain, were in lowly 85th place.

The national stadium was singled out for some of the worst criticism: "The nation's showcase stadium epitomises everything that's wrong with food at football grounds in this country, an awful, over-priced eating experience."

Embarrassingly for Colman's Mustard, who have backed the guide, the club they sponsor (Norwich City) finished 61st - but they have a recently-appointed director who is taking over responsibility for catering, famous chef Delia Smith.

The balti pies at Walsall, the hot pork rolls at Lincoln City and the pasties at Bristol Rovers were also singled out for praise, while editor-in-chief Jim White was left puzzling over questions that will be familiar to most supporters: "Are the staff at food outlets at grounds contractually obliged to be taken by surprise at half-time? Why is the vegetarian option generally confined to a packet of Opal Fruits? What are you supposed to do with your tea bag? What's wrong with real milk? Why are the food outlets invariably right next to the urinals?"

Today's board meeting will be the focal point of interest for concerned United supporters, as Roy McFarland's unsigned contract is discussed. Chairman Reg Smart is thought by some to be ready to roll the managerial dice for the fifth time in six years after the board were abused by a vocal minority during the 2-0 defeat at Barnet.

Roy McFarland

Roy McFarland has made it clear that he wishes to stay, despite the disappointment of having to concede on Saturday that the season is already over as far as promotion is concerned. On his contract situation, McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News, "It is up to the directors. I'm sure we can sort things out."

But Mr Smart refused to comment on the situation or respond to McFarland's comment after the match that he wanted to stay on and plan for the future. "I've nothing to say," was his only offering on that subject.

But when asked about the barracking from the terraces he conceded, "They pay their admission money, so they are entitled to shout what they want."

Smart added, "If they want me out, they should buy enough shares in the club to vote me off the board. I'm told I should put more money in, but I've done my bit. Why should I put in more of my money for their enjoyment when they are not exactly turning up in their droves? If we had another 1,000 on the gate we might be able to get something going."

There is, of course, an argument that says if money were spent on creating an exciting team then the 'fair weather' supporters would return, as they did at the start of the season. But presumably, with the board having dragged the club to its healthiest financial state than for many years, they are reluctant to take that view.

Barnet, though, appear to be doing just that. Of the £500,000 they received for players in the summer, they reinvested £360,000 in the transfer market and are currently a rejuvenated force in the automatic promotion places. United, on the other hand, have spent just £22,500 of the £800,000 plus received in transfer fees last year, although the bank overdraft has been substantially reduced, and languish in 18th.

After Saturday's disappointing result, McFarland lamented the lack of heart shown by his players in front of goal. United were not noticeably out-played by Barnet but were made to pay for two defensive lapses and a lack of bite up front and McFarland commented, "We had the chances, but we are not really going for it in the box. I can't remember when I saw one of our players ending up in the net after trying to get to the ball. You need that determination."

If he is still manager tomorrow then it sounds as though a new striker will still be one of his priorities, especially since he got so close to completing the transfer of QPR striker Lee Charles last week.

Former United star Dion Dublin was included in the senior England squad named today. This is his first England call-up and gives him a chance to claim a World Cup place by facing Chile at Wembley next Wednesday. The popular Dublin spent four seasons at United, making 176 appearances and scoring 73 goals.

In today's Mail on Sunday Roy McFarland is quoted as saying he will quit his job at the Abbey Stadium only if the board want him to. Yesterday's defeat saw United drop out of distant contention for a play-off place but he said, "Rumours will start when you're not winning but I'm staying because I want to see this through."

This comes ahead of tomorrow's board meeting and only days after he promised "I'm not a quitter". His still-unsigned contract is due for discussion tomorrow after it was revealed at last week's AGM that after fifteen months in the job the manager still has to agree the finer points of the deal.

McFarland told the meeting, "There are one or two little things to sort out, but I'm sure we can come to an agreement." Chairman Reg Smart said ominously, "I expect the matter to be resolved by Monday, one way or the other."

Opinions are split on the terraces with a vocal minority calling for McFarland to go (as well as the board, and certain players, and the club secretary ...) while the majority seem to recognise the fact the appointing a new manager for the sixth time in six years will not change the underlying financial constraints.