DEFENSIVE lapses have plagued Colchester United all season, but manager Geraint Williams gained heart from his side's strong display at the back against Leicester.

Carl Marston

DEFENSIVE lapses have plagued Colchester United all season, but manager Geraint Williams gained heart from his side's strong display at the back against Leicester.

Only an 89th minute equaliser from Iain Hume denied the U's a third clean-sheet of the campaign, and back-to-back shut-outs, following the previous weekend's 2-0 win over Ipswich.

“We were so close to getting three points, but we've been there before many times this season.” explained Williams.

“That was the case in our previous away game (4-3 defeat at West Brom), but it was better this time. We defended well.

“It's no secret that we've conceded too many goals this season, so we're looking to build from a strong defence for next season. We've had a lot of changes to our back four, with all the injuries and the departures, including Matt (Connolly) to QPR in January.

“We were bit disappointed at half-time, because although we were defending OK, we didn't keep the ball well and there was an edge to our play.

“I felt we were more of a threat in the second half. Kevin (Lisbie) got his 17th goal of the season and he had another one tipped over. Kevin has been magnificent for us this season, and we're delighted to have him on board.

“Most of my players covered every blade of grass. We turned up for the whole 90 minutes, which we will do for the rest of the season. We just have to defend leads better and keep the ball better.

“Leicester are a big, big club to be where they are. It was difficult at the end when they threw their big defenders up field,” added Williams.

Leicester manager Ian Holloway said: “People might be thinking that a point from this game isn't good enough. But if we can win our next two games, then we will take some stopping.

“Unfortunately, you can't afford to miss the chances that we did. These chances have to start going in. It's as simple as that.”