Ten-man Colchester United hold on for draw at Southampton

The U's played out a goal-less draw with the Saints at St Mary's, despite having to play for nearly an hour of the game a man short, following Kem Izzet's first-half sending off.

Boothroyd, who made four changes to his first starting line-up following last weekend's defeat against Leeds United, will have been suitably pleased with the commitment and endeavour shown by his team, in his first game as Colchester manager.

However, he almost watched his U's side fall behind in the 18th minute.

The impressive Magnus Okuonghae was forced to hack Matt Patterson's goalbound effort off the line, after Rickie Lambert had knocked down Adam Lallana's pass.

The first half proved a largely even affair but the balance of power was tipped the way of the home side, nine minutes before the break.

Lallana held the ball up near the corner flag and was left pole-axed by Izzet's challenge, prompting referee Graham Scott to issue a straight red card to the midfielder.

However, Colchester almost took the lead just before half-time when Ashley Vincent's superb first-time volley bounced back off the crossbar, after Dan Harding had failed to deal with Anthony Wordsworth's long pass.

There was more bad news for Colchester just before half-time, though.

Captain Pat Baldwin landed awkwardly following a corner and was stretchered off with what appeared to be a serious leg injury.

On the stroke of half-time, Kevin Lisbie came a whisker away from prodding the U's in front from Vincent's cross.

But Southampton dominated the second half and desperately tried to make their one-man advantage count.

Substitute Jake Thomson headed a good chance wide and former U's midfielder Dean Hammond fired a long-range effort inches over near the end but Colchester held on for a well-deserved point.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester's game at Southampton, see Monday's Gazette.