Wednesday left-back Paul Heckingbottom was left with egg on his face as his own goal put Colchester in front on 48 minutes.
Heckingbottom, in attempting to clear a cross by substitute Gareth Williams, could only divert the ball into his own net.
It was an inspired substitution by Colchester manager Phil Parkinson, who had introduced Williams at the start of the second half for midfielder Neil Danns.
Danns had been impressive in the first half but picked up an injury - ironically sustained by a foul from Heckingbottom in the 12th minute.
Heckingbottom was booked for the challenge, so it was perhaps justice that his own goal should lead to the home side taking the lead.
The visitors were level in the 63rd minute thanks to a terrific solo effort by John Paul McGovern.
Stylish winger McGovern ran at the Colchester defence before beating keeper Aidan Davison with a low drive that flew into the net off the inside of the far post.
Paul Sturrock's men almost grabbed the winner in the 77th minute when Chris Brunt had his shot superbly diverted on to the underside of the bar by the fingertips of keeper Davison.
That was a let off for Colchester who still need a few points to stave off relegation. But the Essex club actually had more chances than their high-flying visitors and on another day they could have won it.
Williams had a goal ruled out for offside, while fellow striker Greg Halford tested keeper Chris Adamson with a couple of shots from long range.
Colchester had given a debut for Marc Goodfellow and he operated to good effect down the left wing.
He almost regained the lead for Colchester shortly after the equaliser but hooked his shot wide with his less favoured left foot after being put clear by Williams.