Colchester 1 Bishops Stortford 2

Premier B

Colchester 1 Bishops Stortford 2

Colchester tested league leaders Bishops Stortford's promotion credentials to the limit at the Garrison Astro on Saturday with the visitors relieved to return to Hertfordshire with all three points.

The corresponding fixture back in October was a one sided affair with Stortford running out comfortable 7-0 winners, but Colchester were in no mood for a repeat performance and matched the visitors for much of the game.

As expected, Stortford started strongly, but their attacks were snuffed out by keeper Martin Beaver and evergreen sweeper Tony Elston.

The host's confidence grew and they started to launch some attacks of their own with Mark Thorogood dominating in midfield and Craig Warriner's considerable skills causing concern to the visitors defence. Rohan Khaira gave Colchester the lead from a switched short corner routine mid-way through the half.

This goal spurred the hosts on and they were unlucky not to add to their lead before half time with Warriner and Bryan Barker going close.

Stortford showed why they are top of the table and came out strongly in the second half. Colchester weathered the storm for ten minutes but conceded two quick goals and found themselves behind.

The hosts were unable to find the same rhythm as they did in the opening half and their chances of equalising were limited to short corners, which they could not convert.

The game eventually fizzled out and Stortford held onto claim a lucky victory. This Saturday Colchester welcome Long Sutton to the Garrison (12.30pm start).