Aidy Boothroyd was encouraged by Colchester United's performance at Huddersfield Town, despite seeing his side fall to a 2-1 defeat.

The U's produced an improved display at the Galpharm Stadium, but were beaten after conceding a goal in the fourth minute of stoppage-time.

Colchester boss Boothroyd feels the U's performance in their final away game of the season offered plenty of encouragement.

However, he was disappointed with the manner of the two goals the U's conceded to suffer a seventh successive defeat on the road.

Boothroyd said: "Their first goal came from a penalty when Paul (Reid) said he was pushed and then handled it.

"The second came from a free-kick with seven, six foot eight players on the pitch and you have to get those out.

"I've said to the players that we're a whisker away from being a really strong, promotion-winning team.

"But we may as well be a mile away if we do daft things like that.

"But I can honestly say that I'm a lot less disappointed than I have been for other away trips.

"There are lessons learned as always about coming away to difficult places but Huddersfield are where they are for a reason.

"They've been scoring goals and we don't score enough."

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester's defeat at Huddersfield Town, see tomorrow's Gazette.