Steven Gillespie scored for the third successive home game as Colchester United eventually saw off struggling Swindon Town this afternoon.

Gillespie, on as a second-half substitute for Ashley Vincent, lashed in from 25 yards after Robins keeper David Lucas had palmed away Lloyd James' corner.

Swindon proved a tough nut to crack for Colchester, in an evenly-contested game at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Colchester almost fell behind in the second minute when goalkeeper Mark Cousins, who retained his place between the sticks, pushed Elliott Benyon's blockbuster effort onto the bar.

But the U's went ahead four minutes later after David Mooney slotted in from the spot, after Robins defender Andy Frampton had handled in the area.

Cousins prevented Ashley Vincent from heading into his own goal from McGovern's cross and Swindon were proving a danger to the U's.

Jon Obika, on loan from Spurs, forced a good save by Cousins in the opening stages of the second half, before the Robins deservedly equalised, six minutes after the break.

Colchester were unable to clear their lines and after Cousins had prevented Pat Baldwin from scoring an own goal, Scott Cuthbert headed in the rebound from close range.

The U's made attacking changes after the hour mark, sending on Kayode Odejayi and Steven Gillespie to give David Mooney additional support.

Lee Beevers missed an excellent chance to score a winner for Colchester when he headed Lloyd James' corner wide from close-range, with two minutes to go.

Anthony Wordsworth also went close before Gillespie scored a dramatic late winner for Colchester.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester's game against Swindon Town, see Monday's Gazette.