Clinton Morrison believes Colchester United’s spirited display against high-flying Brentford shows that they have what it takes to pull away from danger.

The U’s fell to their sixth successive defeat when they were beaten 3-1 by the Bees and are two points above the League One relegation zone, following the Boxing Day disappointment.

Colchester found themselves two goals down and down to ten men after just 14 minutes, at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

However, they battled back well and only a late Harlee Dean goal confirmed the points for third-placed Brentford.

Morrison feels Colchester should be encouraged by their courageous performance against his former club.

Morrison said: “We have to stick together and I believe with the management and the staff that we have, we can pull away from where we are."

See Thursday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full match report, pictures and more reaction from their 3-1 defeat against Brentford.