COLCHESTER United boss John Ward admitted that his side’s performance was “not sweet,” but that their “battling” qualities were worthy of a point in last night’s 1-1 draw against visiting Bournemouth.

“Our performance wasn’t sweet, and it wasn’t neat and tidy, but it was a good battle,” explained Ward.

“We’ve come out with something, for battling hard. We conceded early, but at least we had 90 minutes and more to get back into it.

“We will take the point and move on. We didn’t play as well as against Yeovil (previous home game), but we still didn’t have players going missing or going into their shell. They were there to be counted.”

Ward praised Steven Gillespie for his role in the 72nd minute equaliser, an own goal by Stephane Zubar.

Gillespie robbed defender Warren Cummings and delivered a dangerous ball into the six-yard box, which Zubar turned into his own net.

“The nice thing about Steven is that he is always ready to go out and play,” continued Ward..

“He has made an impact in the game, which is what I want my substitutes to do.

“Steven provided the situation for our goal, so he will rightly take the plaudits.”