An outstanding display by goalkeeper Sam Walker helped Colchester United begin 2014 with a hard-earned point at MK Dons.

Colchester were forced to defend for most of the first half on a soggy pitch and keeper Walker was much the busier of the two goalkeepers, at a rain-sodden stadiummk.

U’s left-back Luke Garbutt hacked away Dale Jennings’ effort from near his own goal-line early on, while Walker parried away Patrick Bamford’s low shot soon after.

Colchester looked effective on the break at times but only threatened on occasions, with Tom Eastman wasting their best chance when he headed straight at Dons keeper David Martin from an unmarked position, from Garbutt’s free-kick.

Walker denied Bamford and pushed away a low shot from the lively Jennings, who also went close with a 25-yard strike that dropped just past the post but the first half finished goal-less.

Walker was kept busy in the minutes that followed the interval, pushing away long-range efforts from Ben Reeves and Shaun Williams, while Darren Potter’s deft header dropped just wide soon after.

Bamford fired straight at Walker, who also did well to palm away Dele Alli's low effort following a rapid breakaway.

Walker made another great save with eight minutes to go and MK Dons hit the underside of the crossbar deep into stoppage time but Colchester survived to claim a hard-earned point.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester's game at MK Dons, see Thursday's Daily Gazette.