Colchester Hockey Club's disappointing East Men’s League division one season ended with a 2-1 home defeat against Old Southendian.

But they put up a brave fight in their final game of the season, as they prepare for life in division two.

Colchester will reflect on a disappointing season where they did not quite have the ability or experience to get the results in the close games.

But they will be hopeful of new beginnings in division two next season, with a number of youngsters likely to be involved. James Tallentire, Alex Pink, Ollie Lovejoy, James Barber, Joe Sheppard and Connor Scoynes were all debutants, this season.

And Colchester are hoping that they will help them kick on next season and be even stronger.

Colchester recalled Rohan Khaira and Dean Campbell against Old Southendian after a fortnight away.

And their added experience helped them get a foothold in the game.

The hosts took the lead through Lovejoy, who controlled before firing in from Barber’s fine run and reverse stick pass.

Colchester continued to play good hockey and carve out chances.

Skipper Richard Sexton forced a fine save from the Old Southendian keeper, from a penalty corner effort.

But Old Southendian equalised before half-time to dent Colchester’s hopes of finishing the season with a win.

Sexton went close from another penalty corner effort in the second half.

And a wonderful piece of skill allowed Alex Pink to fire in a shot which was heading for the top corner until the Old Southendian keeper somehow managed to palm it over the bar.

But despite Colchester’s encouraging second-half display, Old Southendian bagged their winner to take all the points.

Tallentire was Colchester’s man-of-the-match for his good midfield running and play.