COLCHESTER United boss Paul Lambert admitted that his side have fallen “just short” this season, following a 1-0 home defeat to promotion-chasing Leeds United.

Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United boss Paul Lambert admitted that his side have fallen “just short” this season, following a 1-0 home defeat to promotion-chasing Leeds United.

The U's were undone by Luciano Becchio's 29th minute winner in front of a record crown (9,559) for a U's game at the Community Stadium. The hosts rarely looked like fashioning an equaliser.

“The lads have done well to get out of the relegation zone this season, and next season we will push on,” insisted Lambert.

“I always go back to the fact that we were down there in 21st spot when I took over. In the end, we have fallen just short this season, and I don't like settling for second best.

“You are only as good as the opposition allows. Leeds are right up there and they are on a great run, but I didn't think there was much to choose between the teams.

“The work-rate was there, but sometimes you need a little more than that. We had plenty of endeavour, but perhaps lacked a bit of quality.

“It was great to see a big crowd, but it didn't feel great to get beat in front of a packed house,” admitted Lambert.

Leeds boss Simon Grayson said: “I thought we looked very solid as a unit, and Colchester did not threaten us much this afternoon. We were very professional.”