COLCHESTER United boss, Joe Dunne, praised his players for a gutsy display last night, full of flair and endeavour, despite the disappointment of the end result – a 2-0 defeat by play-off chasing MK Dons.

Scunthorpe’s 2-1 defeat at Bury has left the U’s still five points clear of the relegation zone, with just two games remaining.

So the Essex club are now on the verge of League One safety.

Dunne enthused: “I thought we were great, irrespective of the result. It was just the quality of our finishing that was lacking.

“I thought we dominated the first half, but MK Dons took their two chances, while we didn’t take any of our numerous chances. That is why they are at one end of the table and we are at the other end.

“But I’m really proud of my players, and I can’t wait for Saturday (against Shrewsbury).

“We hit the post (Freddie Sears), had many goalmouth scrambles, hit the side-netting and got into some really good positions.

“On another day, against a different team, we would have won by four or five goals, but MK Dons are a good team.

“I couldn’t fault my players for their effort, and the fans were excellent as well. We started to run out of steam in the second half, but that was because of all the energy that we had expended.

“They played with a lot of heart, and a lot of character, and they did the best they could. We are still in a positive position,” added Dunne.

Scunthorpe are away at MK Dons on Saturday. A defeat would mean the U’s are safe, whatever the outcome at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.