In a fiercely contested local derby, Clacton fought back from a two-goal deficit to defeat a depleted Colchester side in the Printwize East Premier League.

Clacton deployed the remarkably brave tactics of playing their central midfield in very high positions, forcing Colchester to lose the shape and structure that has been such a hallmark of their play in recent weeks.

However, Clacton's daring looked to have backfired in the early stages of the game though, as Colchester converted their early chances to take a two-goal lead.

First, Mark Norton's gentle flick at a short corner beat the unsighted Clacton keeper Maleary. Then the home side were two goals to the good as Paul Edwards fired home from close range after a superb right hand side move.

Clacton for their part generated numerous short corners but were unable to convert.

At half-time, knowing that the score-line was flattering them, Colchester called for a significant improvement in effort.

Despite creating some excellent chances, Colchester failed to take the initiative and ensure their lead was unassailable.

Clacton continued to pressurise a defence lacking the organising skills of Arthur Wormington and were eventually rewarded for their endeavours when Ashton's spectacular 70-metre chip over the Colchester defence found Park unmarked with only the hapless Beaver to beat.

His cool finish was the turning point in the game as Clacton now realised that the match could be won.

When last week's hero Warriner was harshly yellow carded, Colchester's fate was effectively sealed.

With their tails up and ample space to exploit, Clacton tore into Colchester from every angle.

Inevitably the equaliser and winner followed through Andy Poole and Chris Gladman.

With great movement of the ball, former Colchester player Rohan Kahira took on the Colchester defence and passed to Andy Poole, who finished with pinpoint accuracy.

With only minutes left, Colchester were awarded a short corner.

Norton's flick was stopped by Maleary, cleared by Jamie Roberts and the ball found its way to Kahira.

He passed to veteran Chris Gladman who calmly finished the job with ease.

The difference between the opposing team and their supporters was overwhelming stunned silence from Colchester and uncontrollable jubilation from the Seasiders.

Clacton coach Ashton said: "It would have been easy for the lads to give up but they showed great resolve."

Published Thursday November 29, 2001