COLCHESTER United manager John Ward was particularly pleased with his side’s defensive qualities in their 2-1 win at Rochdale this afternoon.

It was somewhat ironic that the U’s first three points of the season came following a performance which didn’t quite match the levels of their opening two league draws.

Indeed, the Essex side had looked to be heading for a third successive score draw after Craig Dawson’s goal from a corner soon after the break had cancelled out another long-range goal from Andy Bond in the 38th minute.

The U’s were able to find a winner six minutes from time though when Ian Henderson chipped the on-rushing keeper following a great assist from David Mooney.

A draw would probably have been a fair result on reflection, with Rochdale by far the better side in the opening stages of the match.

However, Colchester – who now have scored eight goals in games – proved they can be strong in defence, as well as attack.

“I’m pleased because this is a result that shows we can be thorough and stick at it, as well as playing entertaining football,” said Ward.

“Rochdale are a side that will cause a lot of teams problems this season,

“They started really quickly, passed the ball well and out-played us early on. We stuck at it though, settled down and could have scored more than one in that spell before half-time.

“We’ve talked about how we need to defend away from home all week and my players today have shown they can dig in when they need to.”

Colchester United now look forward to a Carling Cup second round trip to Sunderland on Tuesday night.

– Full match report and reaction in Monday’s EADT.