Halford feels U's can bounce back

By Mark Mitchener

Every team loses games, but it's how you react to it Greg Halford

Midfielder Greg Halford feels that Colchester will have to improve after losing 1-0 to a stoppage-time goal by Bournemouth at Layer Road.

He told BBC Sport: "It was gutting, but not all the players were on their game and we got punished in the last minute.

"We didn't use the ball as well as we can - we did create chances, but we didn't stick them away.

"Every team loses games, but it's the way you react to it - next Saturday, I'm sure we'll be back on form."

With 14 games played, the League One table is still fairly open, with just eight points separating fifth-placed Scunthorpe and Tranmere in 23rd.

Colchester lie in the middle of that bracket, with 17 points from their 14 matches, although only Hartlepool and Gillingham have scored fewer than the U's total of 14 league goals.

Four of those 14 have come from the versatile Halford, who stands 6ft 4in but has regularly been utilised on the right of midfield this season.

Having broken into Phil Parkinson's side in 2003/04 at right-back, he filled a variety of roles last season, earning himself a call-up to the England Under-20 squad for the summer's Toulon Tournament - but is happy to be tied to one position for now.

Halford earned England Under-20 recognition during the summer

"I feel I've been playing quite well, although there's more to come from me," reflected Halford, whose long throw-ins also offer another string to his bow.

"I'm happy that I'm playing in a set position now, although it's not where I prefer.

"I prefer central midfield more than anywhere else, but we've got decent midfielders, so I'm just happy playing in one position.

"I think it shows in my performances that if I'm in a set position, I'll play well."

Having been handed a bye in the LDV Vans Trophy, Colchester now have a week off before travelling to struggling Tranmere.

However, Halford is determined that he and his team-mates can bounce back and put a good run together.

"We just have to be confident in our own ability," he said.

"If we keep the ball and take our chances when we can, I'm still positive we can climb the table."