John Ward praises Karl Duguid and Robbie Cowling

COLCHESTER United boss John Ward was full of praise for two-goal hero Karl Duguid, who marked his first start of the season with a man-of-the-match display in a 4-1 home win over Bury this afternoon.

Club stalwart Duguid, who returned to his beloved U’s this summer after a three-year stay at Plymouth, scored twice in the first-half and also came close to netting a hat-trick in a dynamic display as a right winger.

Manager Ward had decided to make a few changes to his team, after a three-match losing streak, and the surprise inclusion of 33-year-old Duguid worked a treat.

Ward explained: “It crossed my mind to put Karl (Duguid) in the team after Tuesday night, following his display (for the Reserves) against Hornchurch.

“And yet he’s been on my bench pretty much all the time.

“Karl has not been literally banging my door down, but the way he trains and works, the mood he keeps in, the smile he always has on his face, and the encouragement he has for everyone else, I am thinking he deserves a shot now.

“And bless him, he has come through, and come through well!” added Ward.

Ian Henderson and Lloyd James were also on target in the U’s demolition of Bury, who had won their three previous league games.

It was a great way for the U’s to respond, after three straight defeats, and Ward also gave a special mention to his chairman Robbie Cowling.

“The chairman has backed me, but then he has backed the football club 100%,” continued Ward.

“He deserves a lot because he puts so much into it, not just his cash but also a massive amount of time and care into this football club.

“And I’m delighted for him today, just as much as I was disappointed for him last week (FA Cup exit at the hands of Swindon).

“It was nice to get the early goal (Duguid scored his first in the second minute), but for the doubters there was still 89 minutes in which to lose it.

“But for the players there was still another 89 minutes to win it better!” added Ward.