COLCHESTER United boss John Ward praised his side’s clinical second-half display in a 4-1 win at Crewe Alexandra, in this afternoon’s FA Cup first round tie.

COLCHESTER United boss John Ward praised his side’s clinical second-half display in a 4-1 win at Crewe Alexandra, in this afternoon’s FA Cup first round tie.

Goals in the final half-hour from Lloyd James (2), Andy Bond and Ben Coker wiped out Byron Moore’s 18 minute opener for 10-man Crewe, who had their skipper Ashley Westwood sent off on 20 minutes.

“The second half was pretty emphatic, but the first half was very level,” explained Ward.

“There was always that situation where they had a lot to defend, down to 10 men but a goal up, and a glamorous result for them if they could hold on.

“I’m really pleased with the response of the team, because we were very upset and disappointed with ourselves at half-time. Crewe had their tails up and I was very impressed with them.

“But I felt if we got an early goal in the second half, it would give us a lift and they would get a little disappointed, and that’s what happened,” added Ward.

Two-goal hero James was only in the side because of Anthony Wordsworth’s late withdrawal – his partner gave birth to their first child yesterday.

“It was a great strike from Lloyd James,” enthused Ward.