The starting eleven was just about as strong as you are likely to see at this level with no less than 7 players that have appeared for the first team in some capacity this season. There were starts for the returning Richard Johnson as well as Kevin McLeod; his pride probably still stinging from last Saturday's showing.
Rangers took the lead early in the game courtesy of Thorpe. A corner from the right was swung in by Padula and Thorpe was allowed to head home unchallenged at the far post. The defending from Colchester was shocking but it was an excellent finish all the same.
Chances were at a premium but the good work of Thorpe was standing out. What was also noticeable was the way he talked the younger players like Pacquette, Mulholland and Bailey through the game. It is not a trait you would associate with Thorpey so it was great to hear a first teamer helping his more junior colleagues.
Marien Ifura was forced out of the action midway through the half and was replaced by John Fletcher. He slotted into the centre of the defence alongside the impressive Lewis Hamilton. This was Hamilton's third run out for the reserves and he has so far played right back, left back and centre half and excelled in all of them. It was noticeable that scout Mel Johnson was on hand to keep an eye on his progress.
The half ended with rent-a-strop Wayne Andrews slinging his toys out of the pram after not getting the rub of the green when hammering a freekick into Mulholland's calf from two yards. He was clearly trying to get the youngster booked and had his usual tantrum when it didn't come off. The only surprise was that it took him almost ninety minutes to get booked.
Second half chances weren't exactly forthcoming although the game remained highly competitive. Pacquette dragged three chances wide after working good positions for himself on the edge of the box. Kevin McLeod also smashed one over the bar after good work from Thorpe. Pacquette found himself in the book late in the game when h complained about a poor decision from the referee against midfield battler Bailey.
Everybody that played tonight can be pleased with their contributions. Day was sharp when called upon and youngsters Hamilton and Fletcher looked solid against experienced opposition in Andrews and Scott McGleish. In midfield Mulholland and Bailey were full of running all night whilst Richard Johnson was a calming influence. The most impressive showing though was from Thorpe who looked hungry and up for it. He was clearly trying to impress in the hope of getting his first team shirt back and he did himself no harm at all.