KEEPER Ben Williams and midfielder Andy Bond both enjoyed their first run-outs of the season as Colchester United Reserves shared a 2-2 draw with a West Ham XI in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Maldon & Tiptree’s ground this afternoon.

KEEPER Ben Williams and midfielder Andy Bond both enjoyed their first run-outs of the season as Colchester United Reserves shared a 2-2 draw with a West Ham XI in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Maldon & Tiptree’s ground this afternoon.

Williams is on the comeback trail after being struck down by a viral infection during the pre-season tour to Holland, while Bond is also returning to fitness after having had his front teeth knocked out in a collision with keeper Mark Cousins during last month’s friendly against Ipswich.

Bond played the full 90 minutes, while Williams played the first 45 minutes.

“Ben (Williams) is no where near fit yet,” explained manager John Ward.

“Mark (Cousins) is a good keeper, we all know that, and if he keeps playing like he did against Charlton (Tuesday night) then he will make it difficult for anyone to take his place.”

Craig Arnott and Ben Coker netted the U’s goals against the Hammers, who included several experienced Premier League players in their starting line-up, including John Carew and Freddie Sears.

U’s team v West Ham XI: Williams (sub Pentney, 46), White, Baldwin, Eastman, Bender, James (sub Olfemi, 67), Hamilton, Bond, Duguid, Coker, Arnott.