Colchester United came from behind twice to force a 2-2 draw at home to Exeter City this afternoon.

Clive Platt struck a late equaliser at a rain-sodden Weston Homes Community Stadium, after the Grecians had led twice.

Stuart Fleetwood struck the post from close range in the opening minute for the visitors and then saw another effort cleared off the line by Marc Tierney minutes later.

But the Exeter forward made no mistake in the sixth minute, converting past goalkeeper Ben Williams following veteran Marcus Stewart's header down.

Colchester struggled to penetrate the Exeter defence after that.

But they got back on level terms four minutes before the break through Clive Platt, who headed in Marc Tierney's run and cross.

But Exeter regained their lead in the first minute of first-half stoppage time through Ryan Harley, who curled a superb free-kick into the top corner from 25 yards.

Colchester started the second half brightly and manager Boothroyd sent on substitutes Steven Gillespie and Josh Payne in a bid to get back into the game.

Former U's goalkeeper Andy Marriott saved from Simon Hackney and Dan Seaborne denied Platt on the line, while a clearance hit Gillespie and almost flew into the net.

But with four minutes to go, Platt latched onto Gillespie's pass to smartly slot home.

Substitute Medy Elito was then shown a straight red card by referee Paul Taylor for a lunge on Bertie Cozic, as the U's claimed a hard-earned point.

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