Courtney Senior, who scored Colchester United’s opener in a 2-0 win over Port Vale, and delivered a man-of-the-match display, was buzzing at the end of the game

East Anglian Daily Times: Courtney Senior is congratulated by team-mates Brennan Dickenson and Frank Nouble after giving the U's an early lead against Port Vale. Senior is hoping for a good run in the League Cup. Picture: STEVE WALLERCourtney Senior is congratulated by team-mates Brennan Dickenson and Frank Nouble after giving the U's an early lead against Port Vale. Senior is hoping for a good run in the League Cup. Picture: STEVE WALLER (Image: � Copyright Stephen Waller)

The 21-year-old attacked said: “It was good play for my goal.

“Jacko (Ryan Jackson) helps me position-wise. I got the ball and drove at the defender, then I saw the one-two (with Brennan Dickenson) and it was a good finish in the end.

“It gave me a lot of pleasure to score. I don’t think that I am a natural goalscorer, to be honest, but you’ve just got to stay composed and that’s what I did to slot it home.

“We created a lot of chances, we were all happy with the win after the last draw (at Notts County). Now we want to go to Mansfield (next Saturday) and get at least another point, if not all three.

“I almost got us a third goal as well. I got on Sammie Szmodics again with a flick-on, but it just went wide. I think overall it was a great performance from the boys,” added Senior.

The U’s squandered several chances to add to their 2-0 goal lead, with Frank Nouble missing three gilt-edged opportunities, but Senior recognised the role played by centre forward Nouble.

“Frank (Nouble) had a few chances that he should have put away, but he just needs to carry on with what he is doing,” continued Senior.

“Personally, I’m delighted that the manager put his faith in me and played me today.

“I think I did well and I seem to like playing against Port Vale. I scored against them last year, so that’s two-out-of-two.”

U’s boss John McGeal said of livewire Senior: “It’s a wonder, when you watch Courtney.

“At times he needs a rest and a sit back to have a look at it. But there’s no denying his quality, and even his temperament.

“You can see him improving and maturing with every game. He’s terrific going forward and he’s also learning his responsibility when he’s out of possession as well.

“He’s an unbelievable talent, and it was a terrific goal. When he gets going, on the back-side of a defender or a midfielder, they very rarely catch him because he’s got that quick turn of pace.”