Colchester United’s new club captain, Magnus Okuonghae, praised the mental strength of his team-mates after Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Oldham.

The U’s looked in danger of suffering a home defeat, on the opening day of the season, after Latics striker Jonathan Forte had bagged a brace of goals to wipe out Okuonghae’s seventh minute opener.

But the U’s rallied strongly and debutant George Moncur’s 58th minute equaliser earned Joe Dunne’s men a draw.

“We were mentally tough after they got their second goal,” insisted Okuonghae.

“We could have wilted, but we never did.

“It bodes well for the season, if the fans keep behind us, and we keep ourselves fit.

“I thought we started the game very brightly, and gave the fans something to sing about.

“For the neutral it was a great game, and we showed good character to get back into it,” added Okuonghae.

For a full match report, pictures and more reaction, see today’s ‘East Anglian Daily Times’ newspaper.