Patrice Tano has further staked his claim for a Colchester United contract by producing an impressive performance for the reserves.
The Ivory-Coast-born striker played in midfield in yesterday's 3-2 Layer Road defeat to Northampton and impressed U's boss Steve Whitton.
Tano also caught the eye in the previous reserve team fixture where he scored in a 1-1 draw with Cambridge United's second string.
But he couldn't inspire the U's to victory at Layer Road yesterday where goals from Neil Champelovier and Dan Wood put Northampton 2-0 up.
Defender Ross Johnson pulled one back for the home side just before the break.
Colchester enjoyed much of the possession and chances in the second period but were caught on the break when Wood swept in Ryan Nash's cross for Northamptons third.
A late Ben Cranfield header was too late to salvage a draw.
Encouraging news for U's fans was the continuing return to fitness of David Gregory. Despite playing out of position for most of the game, the midfielder acquitted himself well and lasted the 90 minutes.
U's boss Steve Whitton said: "There were some very encouraging performances especially from Pinault, Bowry and Gregory.
"It was also very good to see Ross Johnson on the scoresheet. I was very impressed with Tano.
"He's on a week-to-week trial basis at the moment and I'll look forward to having a third look at him when the reserves play at Luton next Wednesday."
More on Colchester United FC
How do you think Colchester are playing this season? Have your say on our Views on the U's bulletin board
Published Thursday, February 21, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article