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COLCHESTER United under-18s produced a determined performance to draw 2-2 with Coventry City after finishing the game with only nine players, writes BRIAN WALLER.
Joe Dunne's side led 2-1 at half-time in their Professional Development League match with goals by Keylan Ble and Dre Henry before the Sky Blues came back to earn a draw.
City threatened throughout but Colchester keeper Oscar Parker was outstanding, producing save after save to keep his side in the game.
Coventry’s first goal came from a rebound after an initial save from Parker, although there were suspicions of an offside.
The match became increased heated with the referee issuing numerous yellow cards, with both sides eventually receiving a red one, with the guilty U’s player being Nadim Dagher.
City had a player off too before Brume Okuku walked as well after receiving a second yellow one, with Colchester having to battle the last 15 minutes with only nine players.
All square - Colchester United under-18s drew 2-2 with Coventry City (Image: cu-fc.com)
Despite their numerical disadvantage the nine boys dug deep, defended resolutely and looked set to hold out.
But heartbreak followed in the last two minutes when they conceded an own goal and allowed City to rescue a draw.
It was a frustrating finish for Colchester after they led at the break and battled bravely with nine players.
Parker’s outstanding work kept Colchester in contention throughout, while the team showed real determination to hold out under immense pressure before the late equaliser denied them all three points.
Colchester United U18s: Oscar Parker, Caiden Lewis, Keylan Ble, Sam McCree, Harrison Palmer, Dre Henry, Brume Okuku, Neo Lieu Smith, Donte Frank, Josh Adesanya, Nadim Dagher. Subs: Harry Cowley, George Porter, Archie Baily, Noah Kalema, Luciano Maffei.