5:30pm Saturday 10th July 2010
By Jonathan Waldron
Colchester United got their pre-season off to a winning start this afternoon after beating Blue Square South side Dover Athletic 2-0 in a pre-season friendly at the Crabble.
John Ward gave 23 of his players a taste of match action, playing completely different outfield teams in each half.
The U's needed only 19 minutes to get off the mark.
Anthony Wordsworth headed in bravely from 15 yards, after Whites goalkeeper Ross Flitney had failed to connect with Lloyd James' lofted free-kick into the area.
James, one of three trialists in the U's squad, curled an effort just over following a sweeping move and goalkeeper Mark Cousins' only meaningful save in the whole game came when he held Sam Cutler's half-volley, midway through the first half.
Colchester continued to dominate proceedings in the second half, with Ian Henderson going close.
They doubled their lead with 20 minutes to go when Clive Platt headed in at the far post, after Dover defender Jordon Anderson had failed to clear Henderson's cross.
Dover's substitute goalkeeper Ben Humphrey saved from Henderson near the end, as the U's enjoyed a comfortable victory in their first pre-season friendly.
For a full match report and reaction, see Monday's Gazette.
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