EVEN a case of mistaken identity, which saw Phil Parkinson sent from the dug-out into the stands during the closing minutes at Shrewsbury, failed to dampen the spirits of Colchester United's inspirational manager.

By Carl Marston

EVEN a case of mistaken identity, which saw Phil Parkinson sent from the dug-out into the stands during the closing minutes at Shrewsbury, failed to dampen the spirits of Colchester United's inspirational manager.

Parkinson and his opposite number Gary Peters incurred the wrath of referee Steve Tanner, following an incident which featured Greg Halford and Shrews striker Colin McMenamin shoulder-charging each other into the dug-out.

“It was nothing to do with me. I was the peacemaker,” explained Parkinson, following his side's 2-1 win.

“It was just a civil discussion and there was no swearing. There was no need for anybody to be sent away from the dug-outs. It was all in the heat of the battle, and I think that the referee has calmed down now.

“One of our players (Halford) was pushed into the dug-out, and their lad (McMenamin) reacted by throwing mud into the face of George (assistant manager Geraint Williams).

“The referee sent their manager and me to the stands, when George was the one involved. I would hope that this incident won't be taken any further,” added the U's boss.

Parkinson was delighted with his side's latest success, and their ability to mix flair with a raw competitive edge. The U's have now won seven games on the bounce.

He continued: “We defended very well. We won the important headers and our keeper did well from crosses.

“It was the sort of day when we had to roll up our sleeves. The sign of a good team is one that can adapt to all the different conditions, in all different circumstances.

“We showed the flair against Gillingham (5-0 win) the previous week, and we did again for patches of today's game, but we knew that we wouldn't get it all our own way.

“Shrewsbury got their equaliser just before half time, but we started the second half strongly. We didn't moan or feel sorry for ourselves.

“Once again, they were two great finishes from Chris (Iwelumo) and Jamie (Cureton). They are on fire at the moment,” added Parkinson.

Shrewsbury manager Peters said: “In the first half I thought we were as good as them, but they had better chances and a little better quality in the final third. That's what won them the game.”