THE experience of Greg Halford sums up the story of Colchester United - brilliant during the first half of the season, but now struggling to even buy a goal.

THE experience of Greg Halford sums up the story of Colchester United - brilliant during the first half of the season, but now struggling to even buy a goal, writes Carl Marston.

The talented Halford has eight goals to his name this campaign, but the big man has not hit the back of the net since November.

The 21-year-old was one of those to squander scoring chances at Nottingham Forest, screwing a low shot into the side-netting during the closing stages of Saturday's 1-0 defeat.

“These missed chances are costing us dear. That's been the story of the last few months,” admitted Halford.

“The team is not scoring, and I'm not scoring. It's a long time since I've scored a goal, and it's very frustrating. I had another chance today. It was a tough one, but I should have done better with it.

“I'm still getting the chances, but not scoring. That's the same with the other lads, and unfortunately we're losing points because of it.

“I don't think there's any one reason. It's a combination of factors, like confidence, technique and making the right decisions. It's really frustrating,” added Halford.

Chelmsford-born Halford netted a brace in the 5-0 home win over Gillingham on November 26, to boost his tally to eight goals for the season, but the big man has since suffered a goal drought, spanning more than four months.

However, the U's right-midfielder remains convinced that promotion is within the club's grasp, either automatically or via the play-offs.

United are four points behind second-placed Brentford, with a game in hand. They are still in fourth slot, thanks to their chief rivals all dropping points on Saturday.

Halford continued: “We are still looking at the top two. It's good that the other teams are tripping up as well.

“We have had a dip, but we are still playing well and dominating games. That's how it goes sometimes. We are not having much luck.

“Nottingham Forest did not deserve to win today. Their goal was a lucky one, with Wayne (Brown) slipping while trying to clear. The ball just hit their fellow and rolled in.

“I'm sure our luck will turn. It's going to come good. Other results have been kind to us.

“We just have to do better in the final third of the pitch. We are gutted not to have got a result today, but we are still up there and we have a vital match at home to Hartlepool on Tuesday. That is a must-win game,” concluded Halford.