Colchester United registered their first win of 2012 with an impressive 1-0 win at Leyton Orient.

An own goal by O's right-back Terrell Forbes just before the half hour mark proved the difference between the two mid-table sides, in a closely-contested affair at Brisbane Road.

Colchester received a let off in the opening minutes when Kevin Lisbie raced onto Jimmy Smith's through ball but was denied by Ben Williams.

But Lloyd James tested Orient keeper Lee Butcher with a long-range strike and the U's took the lead after 28 minutes.

After being picked out by Gavin Massey, a fine cross by Karl Duguid was converted into his own net from four yards by O's defender Forbes, under pressure from Ian Henderson.

Colchester received a let off just before half-time when Lisbie went down under pressure from Tom Eastman in the area.

But the O's appeals fell on deaf ears and the U's really should have doubled their lead in the opening stages of the second half.

Massey raced onto Anthony Wordsworth's through pass and went past Butcher, only to plant a shot onto the post and away for a goal-kick.

James came close with a dipping effort which forced Butcher to palm over over for a corner.

James almost completed Colchester's win with six minutes to go when he forced Butcher to tip over from close range, after Henderson had latched onto Magnus Okunonghae's long clearance and cleverly picked him out.

But one goal proved to be enough for the U's to collect their first win in four league matches.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester United's game at Leyton Orient, see Monday's Gazette.