Ian Atkins was appointed as the manager charged with returning Colchester United to the Football League at the first attempt, like Lincoln City and Darlington had prior to them.

Colchester started the season with a 100 per cent record from their opening six home games, but it took the U's until April to reach top spot in the Conference table.

In the FA Cup, United were dispatched by League opposition Leyton Orient following a 0–0 draw at Layer Road.

Colchester reached the quarter-final of the FA Trophy in their first time playing in the competition, beaten by Witton Albion.

The U's could only manage a 1–1 draw, and with Barnet improving on Colchester's results until the close of the season pipped United to the Conference title by two points.