Despite another excellent performance, Colchester were defeated by a clinical Cambridge University outfit.

As expected the students began the game a great pace, their initial onslaught generating two good chances.

One effort was just off-target while the second strike was cleared off the line by Warriner.

Colchester weathered the storm and began to prise open the Cambridge defence.

After a superb run by Collins, Norton just missed the target, but a minute later Colchester took the lead.

A devastating series of quick passes on the left flank created an opportunity for Collins, who dived full-length to force the ball home.

The tight midfield battle continued in similar vain until midway through the second half, when Macaulay was caught in possession.

The students ruthlessly exploited the available space and counter-attacked before scoring.

Colchester immediately responded, although were fortunate to have the benefit of at least one umpiring decision before Paul Edwards was upended in the circle.

A penalty-flick was awarded, which Wormington calmly slotted home.

Minutes later, Colchester should have seized the opportunity to secure the win after a superb move was rewarded with a short corner.

But Colchester's routine looked less than convincing as the chance was spurned.

Cambridge then punished another minor lapse in concentration by the Colchester midfield with a superb move down the right flank that was neatly flicked past Beaver to level the scores.

The students, sniffing victory, then lay siege to Colchester's defence, eventually forcing a short corner.

Although the drag-flick was mistimed, the unfortunate Beaver could only deflect the ball into his own goal.

Colchester in turn tried to find an equaliser and eventually forced a short corner in the final minute.

Although well-struck, Norton's shot was easily saved by the Cambridge keeper.

Colchester seconds produced a 2-1 win at home to Upminster.

Lewis Palmer and Derek Hewlett scored the goals.

Colchester fourths took an early lead through Clive Grenison on their way to a 3-1 victory, also over Upminster. Michael Pearce and Paddy Logan were the other scorers.

Published Wednesday, February 20, 2002