Colchester came from two goals behind to salvage a 2-2 draw with Bristol City this afternoon.

Colchester started slowly, with former Ipswich attacker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas’s long-range half-volley parried away by U's keeper Sam Walker early on.

And Joe Dunne's side were behind in the eighth minute when Martin Paterson composed himself before firing past Walker inside the area after Emmanuel-Thomas had advanced into the box.

City goalkeeper Frank Fielding made a fine diving save to parry away Alex Gilbey’s fierce shot.

But Emmanuel-Thomas curled a good opportunity wide from inside the area, just before the break.

And Bristol City doubled their lead three minutes after the break through Scott Wagstaff, who eventualy scored after Walker had fumbled Brendan Moloney’s low cross.

Colchester substitute Freddie Sears saw his effort pushed over by Fielding on the hour before the U's were given hope when Gavin Massey bundled in Marcus Bean's low cross from close range, with 17 minutes to go.

And six minutes later, Sears lashed in a superb low shot from 20 yards to salvage a point for Colchester.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester United's game with Bristol City, see Monday's Daily Gazette.