U's boss praises a 'magnificent effort'

By Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United manager Geraint Williams praised his team for a “magnificent effort” to claim a shock 2-1 win at Charlton yesterday.

But the U's boss warned that the hard work is only just beginning, as the Essex club try and drag themselves clear of the relegation zone.

“We needed a reaction after the last game (2-0 home defeat by Blackpool), and the reaction was terrific,” enthused Williams.

“However, one swallow does not make a summer. We need another win on the back of this result. The players deserve all the praise today. Everyone was magnificent.

“Kevin (Lisbie) was on fire. He wishes that he can play against Charlton every week, but this proves that he should be able to do this against any opposition, anywhere.

“Charlton had a few openings, but we closed them down quickly and made it difficult for them to get shots away. We tracked their runners, so it was difficult for them to score.

“We took our chances, and also defended heroically. We looked a different team, and the backing of our fans was brilliant,” added Williams.

Double goalscorer Kevin Lisbie was quick to stress the role of the U's defence. It was his first-half brace that won the game, but the back four stood firm throughout the second period.

“We coped well with the threat of Chris Iwelumo and Luke Varney in the second-half. We nullified them,” insisted Lisbie.

“That was a good sign. I spoke to Deano (Gerken) afterwards, and he said that he couldn't remember having a serious save to make in the second-half.

“We had about 1,000 fans supporting us, and they looked like they were going to get behind us, whatever the outcome.

“We coped with the pressure and proved that we are a good Championship side. We can handle it. I believe that we can start climbing the table,” added Lisbie.