Colchester United drew 2-2 with Luton Town in their latest pre-season friendly at Kenilworth Road tonight.

Luton went close in the 16th minute when defender Fraser Franks’ header from Angelo Balanta’s free-kickbounced back off a post.

But five minutes later, Drey Wright was denied by Hatters goalkeeper Elliot Justham from point-blank range after Freddie Sears had latched onto Sam Walker’s long throw and crossed into the six-yard box.

However, the U’s fell behind in the 27th minute when Mark Cullen swept home from close range, seconds after Walker had done superbly to deny Ross Lafayette from a similarly dangerous position.

Colchester needed less than three minutes to get back on level terms, though.

After Gavin Massey had cut in well from the right to force a save from Justham at his near post, the home side failed to clear and Jabo Ibehre’s shot appeared to be heading wide before it hit unfortunate Luton defender Paul Connolly and flew into the net.

Colchester took the lead five minutes after the break through Ibehre, who cleverly hooked a shot past the on-rushing Justham from Sears' pass.

But Luton were back on level terms in the 69th minute when Luke Guttridge converted at the far post, seconds after coming on as a substitute.

And that was the way it stayed, as Colchester played out an entertaining draw.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester's friendly at Luton, see Wednesday's Daily Gazette.