COLCHESTER United boss Tony Humes praised the never-say-die attitude of his players in their 3-2 defeat at Barnsley.

The U’s failed to wave the white flag, even when they were 3-1 down in tonight’s League One contest at Oakwell.

Freddie Sears set up a grandstand finish by rifling home their second goal, but the hosts managed to hold on for a hard-earned three points.

Humes was disappointed to finish empty-handed, but felt there were plenty of positives in defeat.

“It was frustrating and disappointing because I thought it was another good performance,” he said.

“We keep giving ourselves a mountain to climb by conceding goals, but you have to commend the players.

“They showed a lot of character and belief to keep going.

“They don’t get disheartened when they go behind and I thought we could have nicked a point in the end.”

Sanchez Watt scored Colchester’s first goal, making it 1-1.

For full coverage of the game, see Monday’s Gazette.