Undefeated in three games and back-to-back wins, there was no doubting Colchester United boss Phil Parkinson's delight at the final whistle against Port Vale.

Chris Iwelumo's 34th-minute goal was all that the U's needed as they stood firm to seal a 1-0 win over the Valiants at Vale Park.

"We had a plan and stuck to it," said a very satisfied Parkinson.

"Port Vale are up where they are in the table on merit. We had watched a lot of their performances this season and they have two of the best front runners in the Coca-Cola League One.

"They are up where they are for a good reason so we had to work out the best way to take them on.

"We had a long journey to consider as well. However, we stuck to the plan, got the goal and then restricted Vale's opportunities."

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Published Monday, September 19, 2005

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