Two goals from midfielder Lloyd James helped Colchester United come from behind to beat ten-man Crewe Alexandra 4-1 at Gresty Road this afternoon to secure their place in the FA Cup second round.

Alex, of League Two, went ahead in the 19th minute through Byron Moore.

But the home side were reduced to ten men soon after when Ashley Westwood was sent off for a rash challenge on U's left-back Ben Coker.

Colchester improved signifcantly in the second half and were back on level terms on the hour when James fired in a superb strike from nearly 30 yards which flew in off the crossbar, for his first goal for the club.

And the U's turned the tie on its head with 13 minutes to go when Andy Bond, a former Crewe player, gave the visitors the lead.

Coker popped up to score his first ever goal for Colchester with three minutes to go, to make it 3-1.

And James rounded off a pleasing afternoon for John Ward's side with a fourth goal, in stoppage-time.

Colchester now await the second round draw, which takes place tomorrow afternoon live on ITV1.

U's legend Ray Crawford, who helped Colchester shock Leeds United in the FA Cup in 1971, will help make the draw.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester United's win at Crewe Alexandra, see Monday's Gazette.