COLCHESTER United boss Paul Lambert praised match-winner Marc Tierney for his role in last night's 1-0 home win over Stockport County.

Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United boss Paul Lambert praised match-winner Marc Tierney for his role in last night's 1-0 home win over Stockport County.

Left-back Tierney ended a run of three straight defeats, and nearly five hours without a U's goal, by heading home the only goal of the game in the 17th minute.

It was also Tierney's first goal for the U's, and only the second of his career. It proved sufficient to see off promotion-chasing Stockport.

Lambert enthused: “It was a great goal from Marc (Tienrey). He's getting better and better with each passing game.

“He's only a young lad. His hunger and enthusiasm and desire for the game of football is terrific.

“I thought we were the better team throughout. Stockport are a good side, but we were on top from the first whistle and we deserved to win it.

“I'm not one to dwell on defeats, and the lads were not feeling flat despite Saturday's defeat to Southend. The response was terrific.

“I gave Simon Hackney his first start for us, and he did really well. He's an exciting player. He's not quite match-fit, but he runs at people and creates chances.

“I took him off during the second half because he had a tight calf, but hopefully he should be okay for Hartlepool on Saturday,” added Lambert.