JOHNNIE Jackson's missed spot kick cost Colchester United a chance to force a penalty shoot-out, although they can have no complaints with last night's Carling Cup defeat at Shrewsbury.

By Carl Marston

JOHNNIE Jackson's missed spot kick cost Colchester United a chance to force a penalty shoot-out, although they can have no complaints with last night's Carling Cup defeat at Shrewsbury.

It was a special night for the Shropshire club, who were hosting their first competitive match at their New Meadow Stadium, after 97 years at Gay Meadow.

And they were indebted to no-nonsense defender Darren Kempson for surprising the U's. His header in the 16th minute of extra-time proved to be the only goal of the game, although Jackson spurned a great chance to equalise when seeing his penalty saved by keeper Ryan Esson on 115 minutes.

U's boss Geraint Williams admitted: "We didn't show enough invention and we just didn't create the chances. We had 120 minutes to do it, but we couldn't manage to break them down.

"It was frustrating for us. There are no easy ties, especially if you can't score a goal!

"It doesn't matter if you thought it was a poor penalty, or a great save, the fact is that it didn't go in. That was about the only chance we created all night.

"It was pleasing to get youngsters like Anthony Wordsworth and Tom Webb on the pitch for their first taste of action, but we just didn't create enough, despite controlling long parts of the game," added Williams.

"I think if we were still out on the pitch now, then we'd still struggle to score goals! There was just not enough quality about our play.

"But we are not deflated, just disappointed. We have another game to look forward to on Saturday [at home to Barnsley]," added Williams.