Tony Humes said he was proud of his Colchester United players after they drew 1-1 with promotion-chasing Swindon Town tonight.

The U's came agonisingly close to securing a precious win over the Robins in their battle to beat the drop, with Chris Porter seeing his header coming back off a post and also having an effort disallowed in the closing stages of the game at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Colchester had taken the lead through Jacob Murphy's opening-minute goal.

But they were pegged back by Ben Gladwin's headed equaliser, early in the second half.

Colchester created numerous chances to win the game in the second half, although keeper Sam Walker had to be in excellent form at the other end as a thrilling game ended all square.

The result means Colchester got into their televised final game of the season against promotion-chasing Preston North End on Sunday a point adrift of safety.

But Humes said: “I thought that we were outstanding all through the game in terms of how we went about it, the quality we showed and the opportunities that we created.

“We just didn’t finish them off but the work-rate and effort was excellent.

“We made a great start, which we’ve done a lot this season.

“We kept playing the game the right way and created a lot more opportunities.

“The chances were there – Swindon had a few chances too but looking at what we created against a good team, the players were fantastic."

Humes also has special words of praise for the U's fans, who got behind their side throughout.

"They recognised the players put everything into the game," said Humes.

"The fans were outstanding and they got behind them all through the game.

"The atmosphere was terrific and they urged the team on all game.

"I think they will go away having seen a really enjoyable game and recognise what we've done throughout the game.

"We just didn't do quite enough to get those three points."

For a full match report, pictures and reaction from the U's draw with Swindon, see Wednesday's Daily Gazette.